A red weather warning is in place amid soaring temperaturesRoyal Mail deliveries could be affected due to extreme weather(Image: Paul Gillis / Reach PLC)Royal Mail has warned that soaring temperatures could impact deliveries in the Midlands.It comes as the mercury is expected to reach 34C in Birmingham today (Wednesday, June 24) with a red warning in place until 9pm on Thursday, June 25.The Met Office states: “During the heatwave expected to affect a large part of England and Wales this week, the highlighted area now looks increasingly likely to see a two to three day period where maximum temperatures in the shade exceed 37 Celsius, perhaps rising to 38 to 40 Celsius in some places.READ MORE: Birmingham closures live as school and businesses shut over danger to life warning”The heat will be accompanied by high humidity, exacerbating the potential for discomfort and health impacts, with very warm and humid night times also reducing the ability for people to recover overnight.”Significant disruption to daily life is likely and the public should take every effort to make precautions and adapt their daily routines where possible to cope with these levels of heat, which up to now have been extremely rare for the UK.”Due to the extreme weather, some people may see delays in their letters and packages being delivered in order to protect posties.A spokesperson for Royal Mail said: “The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for extreme heat across parts of England and Wales starting at 9 am Wednesday, 24 June until 9 pm Thursday, 25 June 2026.”A red warning indicates that temperatures could reach 37–40°C in some areas of the UK.”Due to the extreme conditions, we will need to make some adjustments to our operation and there may be some service disruption as a result. The safety of our posties and our customers remains our top priority. “The warning is expected to be in place for approximately 36 hours.”Midlands postcodes affected:B — Birmingham: Covers Birmingham and nearby places such as Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Redditch and Bromsgrove.CV — Coventry: Covers Coventry, Rugby, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Nuneaton.DY — Dudley: Covers Dudley, Stourbridge, Brierley Hill and Kingswinford.HR — Hereford : Covers Hereford and much of Herefordshire, plus parts of Powys/south Shropshire.WR — Worcester: Covers Worcester, Malvern, Droitwich, Pershore and Evesham.WS — Walsall: Covers Walsall, Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley and Burntwood.WV — Wolverhampton: Covers Wolverhampton, Bilston, Willenhall and parts of Staffordshire/east Shropshire.Royal Mail adds: “Please note, this list is not exhaustive, and other areas may be affected by the weather warning.”It is always best to check the Met Office websiteOpens in a new window for the latest information.”You can get all your favourite content from BirminghamLive on WhatsApp. Click here to sign up for breaking updates about the biggest stories in the region.If you prefer reading our stories on your phone, consider downloading the BirminghamLive app. You can get it from Apple here and for Android here.And finally, if there is a story you think our journalists should be looking into, we want to hear from you. Email us on newsdesk@birminghammail.co.uk.
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Royal Mail full list of postcodes with deliveries delayed by 36C heatwave
New officers tackle anti-social behaviour in Leicester
Scott White, one of the new officers, told the BBC “The single biggest issue is the street lifestyle.”It’s trying to get groups of people to engage and to trust us. “A lot of people see the uniform and they think we’re the police.”We’ve been called spies [but] we’re not here to punish everyone and we’re not here to enforce every time. “We are actually here to help people.”Soulsby said he was proud only a “tiny” number of fines had been issued so far.”The order is particularly aimed at persuading people, not fining them, or seeking to take them to court or anything of that sort.”It’s to try to get them to act in a way that makes a life for everybody else in the city centre reasonable and bearable.”City centre police inspector Ryan Ludlam said: “We welcome the coordinated approach of this new team, which will play a valuable role in deterring anti-social behaviour in the city centre and further aiding crime reduction in the area.”Currently the PSPO rules apply to the city centre, but the council is carrying out a public consultation on proposals to expand them to surrounding neighbourhoods.It is expected to make a final decision on the move later in the summer.
‘We’re young Cambridgeshire voters – we don’t think about the EU’
Chris Hopkins, the director of political research at polling firm Savanta, says polling has consistently suggested a majority of voters would support rejoining the EU. That, he adds, is driven by two things: demographic change and “Brexit regret”.In 2016, “older voters were far more likely to be leavers and younger voters were far more likely to be remainers”.”Some of those older voters will simply have died off and they’re being replaced by younger voters,” Hopkins says.Voters who were too young to vote a decade ago but have since turned 18 are “overwhelmingly more likely to vote to rejoin”.While many views on both sides are “entrenched”, Hopkins estimates between “one in five and one in seven” leavers might have changed their minds.What was causing “Brexit regret”?”I think there is just a perception not so much that anything was gotten wrong in 2016,” he says.But he adds that “Brits” don’t “necessarily feel as though they’ve really felt the benefit of Brexit”.”Their life hasn’t necessarily improved in the way that maybe some in the Leave campaign said it might.”
Luke Ayling : fiche, stats, carrière – BeFoot
ProfilStatistiquesStats détailléesActualitésCarrièrePalmarès
Statistiques — saison en cours (2025-2026)
Saison en cours (2025-2026) — source : API-Football · note moyenne 7.26.
Statistiques détaillées — saison en cours ▾
Fautes (commises / subies)26 / 64
Carte d’identité
NationalitéAngleterre
Actus BeFoot — Luke Ayling
Voir toutes les actus →
Statistiques par saison
CompétitionClubMBPDNote
2025-2026
Coupe de la Ligue anglaise
Middlesbrough
1
0
0
7.0Coupe d’Angleterre
Middlesbrough
1
0
0
7.6Championship
Middlesbrough
46
1
5
7.3M = matchs, B = buts, PD = passes décisives, Note = note moyenne. Source : API-Football.
Palmarès
🏆
ChampionshipAngleterre
2019/2020🏆
League OneAngleterre
2014/2015🏆
EFL TrophyAngleterre
2014/2015🏆
Emirates CupWorld
2009🏆
League OneAngleterre🏆
EFL TrophyAngleterre🏆
ChampionshipAngleterre🏆
Emirates CupWorldTitres remportés — source : API-Football.
À propos
Luke Ayling est un footballeur anglais, qui évolue au poste de défenseur à Middlesbrough FC. Retrouvez son profil complet, ses statistiques, son parcours et toute l’actualité le concernant sur BeFoot.← Accueil
Middlesbrough FC Compétitions
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North Staffordshire restaurant ‘closed until further notice’
A town centre restaurant is ‘closed until further notice’. Alberto’s Kitchen was unable to open last night following a storage room fire.It comes as an investigation is to be launched into the cause of the fire within The Smithfield Centre, in Leek. It broke out at 4.50am yesterday.Now it is not known when Alberto’s Kitchen will reopen.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIn a social media post to customers, Alberto’s Kitchen stated: “Unfortunately we experienced a fire in our upstairs storage room. Thankfully, the fire was contained and did not spread further. However, it has caused significant damage and we need time to fully assess the situation and ensure everything is safe before reopening. As a result, we will remain closed until further notice. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this difficult time.”We will keep everyone updated as we learn more. Our hope is to resume collection and delivery services as soon as possible but at this stage we are unable to provide a reopening date. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to serving you again soon.”Get even more North Staffordshire exclusives – and it is free
Manchester overtakes London as top buy-to-let investment hub
Manchester has overtaken London as the number one location targeted by buy-to-let investors.
Data from The Property Buying Company from 295 investors reveals just under a quarter – at 23% – are searching property in Manchester, outpacing the 18% who set their preferences for the Capital.
The top five most in-demand cities for investors are Manchester at 23%, London at 18%, Liverpool at 8%, Birmingham at 7% along with Luton and Nottingham at 3%.
Average rents
While average rents in Manchester have risen by 3% in the past year to £1,349 a month, slightly below the British average increase of 3.4%, the city continues to offer gross rental yields of 6.6%, compared to 5.1% in London.
The Property Buying Company goes on to reveal that the North West remains the most sought-after region in England and Wales, with 18% stating it as their preferred region for investment.
Lagging behind
Last week, it was revealed Manchester tops the league table of cities with the fastest house price growth in the past 10 years with London lagging well behind.
Prices were up 63%, while in the Capital they had risen only 7% during the same period.
The analysis by Rightmove also showed the four fastest growing local areas were all suburbs in Greater Manchester.
Manchester has established itself as one of the UK’s most attractive investment opportunities.”
Karl McArdle, Co-Founder, The Property Buying Company
Karl McArdle, Co-Founder of The Property Buying Company, says: “Despite not promising the highest rental yield, Manchester has established itself as one of the UK’s most attractive investment opportunities.
“Our data shows that demand for property in Manchester is nearly three times higher than in Liverpool and more than three times higher than in Birmingham”.
He went on to say: “The city ticks a lot of boxes for investors, with a growing population, high rental demand, ongoing regeneration projects, several universities and major employers”.
More on buy-to-letLook back at iconic Liverpool department store as building goes up for sale
Located on the corner of Renshaw Street and Ranleigh Street, it was the flagship store of the Lewis’s empire and began in the 19th centuryDickie Lewis’s statue on Ranelagh/Renshaw Street junction(Image: Liverpool Echo)While it has been more than 100 years since the renowned department store Lewis’s first welcomed shoppers to Liverpool city centre, for those who grew up in Merseyside, the iconic building still serves as a familiar landmark in the city.Located on the corner of Renshaw Street and Ranleigh Street, it was the flagship store of the Lewis’s empire and began in the 19th century. Founder David Lewis arrived in Liverpool in 1839, aged 16, and served his apprenticeship with a firm of tailors before setting up his first small shop at 44 Ranelagh Street in 1856, selling men’s and boys’ clothing.When Lewis died in 1885, the Ranelagh Street store was the city’s largest department store, with the founder having expanded his reach to Manchester, Sheffield, and Birmingham. Lewis’s was famously known for selling tea for just 2s and is claimed to have been “instrumental” in making it the nation’s favourite drink, the ECHO previously reported.The Grade II-listed building was built to replace the original store, which was destroyed in Luftwaffe bombing raids during WWII.The shell of Lewis’s building after the Second World War, May Blitz in Liverpool. Earlier that day had been crowded with shoppers. 3rd May 1941(Image: Mirrorpix)For decades, it remained a cornerstone of local life where countless people from across Merseyside were employed or spent their weekends browsing. Fond memories of the store often include the fragrance of the perfume department, the bustling food halls, and the essential family tradition of visiting the legendary Christmas grotto for a festive photograph.In 1991, the entire retail chain was acquired by Owen Owen, which was later taken over by BHS billionaire Philip Green. However, by 2001, the Liverpool branch stood as the sole survivor of the Lewis’s legacy until Owen Owen eventually went into administration in 2007. Lewis’s was then closed in 2010 by owners Vergo Retail.Yesterday, Tuesday (June 23), the ECHO reported that it was announced that the iconic, Grade II-listed Lewis’s Building is being marketed on a freehold basis.The first meeting with Santa at Lewis’s department store in Liverpool, December 1992(Image: Mirrorpix)READ MOREGlobal commercial real estate advisor Avison Young and joint agents Area have been appointed to market the striking building. The building has been partially redeveloped, with current tenants including the 126-bedroom Adagio aparthotel, which accounts for 86,000 sq ft as well as a Pure Gym.But the remaining space within the building is now being sold as an opportunity for further development, including nearly 70,000 sq ft of self-contained office facilities (The Department) and the remainder of the former department in shell-and-core condition at 138,492 sq ft.Situated on the corner of Ranelagh Street in the city centre, the site also includes three retail and leisure units totalling 37,149 sq ft, each with independent access off Renshaw Street and Ranelagh Street, plus a basement.Lewis’s building in Liverpool(Image: Photo by Colin Lane)The area has already been earmarked for large-scale regeneration, including the £5bn expansion of Liverpool Central Station Gateway, which sits directly behind the Lewis’s Building.The property has more than £800,000 of annual income from rent currently secured, with Adagio Hotels’ lease set to expire in 2043, and Pure Gym’s in 2032. Those marketing the site insist it presents an “unrivalled city centre investment and redevelopment opportunity”, with potential uses including education, life sciences, hospitality, residential and student accommodation.David Winterbottom, of the principal, capital markets team at Avison Young, said: “The Lewis’s Building is an iconic cornerstone of Liverpool city centre, and we expect to see strong interest as this historic site comes to market.“The property presents a truly unrivalled opportunity for mixed-use redevelopment, offering exceptional flexibility for a wide range of future uses. Positioned at the intersection of Liverpool’s thriving retail, office and innovation districts, the site benefits from significant planning potential across residential, leisure, commercial and cultural sectors.“Liverpool city centre has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, driven by significant inward investment, and this landmark asset is now poised to be reimagined for the next generation, reflecting the continued regeneration and growth we’re already seeing across the wider city region.”For further information, or to arrange an inspection, you can contact David Winterbottom or Chris Ward at Avison Young.
European Energy sells 15 MWac Trinity Hall Solar Farm in Bedfordshire to AlphaReal-managed entity
European Energy has completed the sale of Trinity Hall Solar Farm—a 15 MWac operational solar park in Bedfordshire, UK—to Elm Solar Holdings Limited, an entity established for funds managed by Alpha Real Capital LLP. The facility was energized earlier this year, following construction that began in the second half of 2024. European Energy will retain asset management responsibilities for the park under its new ownership.
Sale Completed as Project Reaches Commercial Operation
The transaction marks the close of a full development cycle for European Energy. Trinity Hall Solar Farm, a 15 MWac solar park in Bedfordshire, was energized earlier in 2025 after construction began in the second half of 2024. Elm Solar Holdings Limited—an entity established for funds managed by Alpha Real Capital LLP—is now the incoming owner. European Energy will continue providing asset management services despite the ownership transfer.
Nordea provided project financing, while Burges Salmon acted as legal adviser to European Energy. The involvement of established financial and legal institutions reflects the structured nature of the deal and the growing maturity of the UK solar market as an investment destination.
Divestment Follows European Energy’s Develop-to-Sell Model
The sale aligns with European Energy’s stated business approach: develop, construct, and operate renewable energy projects before transferring ownership to long-term investors. Capital recycled through that process flows back into new development activity.
Deputy CEO Jens-Peter Zink described the project as a clear illustration of that strategy. “Trinity Hall Solar Farm is an example of the projects European Energy develops through the entire value chain, from project development and permitting through to construction and operation,” he said. “With construction completed and the facility now operational, the project is ready for its next phase under new ownership.”
European Energy continues expanding its UK renewable energy portfolio, where rising demand for low-carbon electricity is generating sustained opportunities for active developers.
Long-Term Power Purchase Agreement Underpins Contracted Revenues
Offtake from Trinity Hall Solar Farm is secured through a corporate power purchase agreement—a structure that provides contracted revenues to Elm Solar Holdings Limited and reduces its exposure to short-term wholesale price volatility.
Long-term PPAs are playing an increasing role in supporting new renewable generation capacity across the UK. Developers gain revenue certainty; corporate buyers get a mechanism to meet their sustainability commitments. Operational assets backed by such agreements continue to draw institutional capital, particularly from investors seeking grid-connected projects with predictable cash flows as renewable infrastructure matures as an asset class.
Community Benefit Fund Established Alongside the Project
During the development and construction phase, European Energy UK established the Trinity Hall Solar Farm Community Benefit Fund. It was created to reflect the company’s long-term presence in the local area.
Local organizations and community groups can apply through the fund for support that directly benefits residents near the solar farm. The initiative signals European Energy’s commitment to community engagement not just during construction but across the asset’s longer operational life.
UK Solar Sector Context and European Energy’s Broader Track Record
Trinity Hall Solar Farm is expected to supply renewable electricity to the UK grid for decades, adding to a growing base of operational solar capacity in a market where policy support and corporate demand for clean power continue to encourage investment.
The sale strengthens European Energy’s track record of developing, financing, constructing, and divesting renewable energy projects across Europe. Taking a project from permitting through to a completed institutional sale demonstrates real operational depth. Transactions like this one—combining an operational asset, contracted revenues, and institutional ownership—show how private capital is moving into the sector as national energy transition goals gain urgency.
Local Organizations Will Also Benefit
Trinity Hall Solar Farm is a 15 MWac operational solar park in Bedfordshire, sold by European Energy to Elm Solar Holdings Limited and managed by Alpha Real Capital LLP. European Energy developed and constructed the project and will continue to provide asset management services. The park is supported by a corporate PPA, providing contracted revenues under new ownership. Nordea financed the project; Burges Salmon advised European Energy on legal matters. A community benefit fund was established to support local organizations near the site.Kelly is an experienced writer with 15 years of experience exploring the big stories that shape our world, from tech breakthroughs and space exploration to climate, energy, and the fascinating quirks of science. She has a talent for turning complex ideas into sharp, memorable insights that stay with readers long after they’ve finished reading.
Roadworks to see summer of closures on 10 Leicester streets
Drivers are being warned of road closures as a £1m programme of road repairs and resurfacing across Leicester began this week.On Monday, Wilne Street in Spinney Hills closed for two days of resurfacing.The full length closure is the first in a timetable which will see more than 28,500 sq m (306,700 sq ft) of 10 streets worked on until the end of August.The council said diversions will be signposted while repairs are carried out, and added work has been planned over the school summer holidays when there is less traffic.After Wilne Street, work moves to King Newton Street on Wednesday and Thursday.Overnight works are planned for Heron Road at its junction with Kingfisher Avenue, in North Evington, on Friday.The next project is then on 11 and 12 July, when part of Gwendolen Road, between Dorothy Road and Constance Road, is resurfaced.Morley Road, in Wycliffe, is due to be resurfaced over three days from 13 July.Butterwick Drive in Beaumont Leys will see its full length resurfaced over a fortnight, beginning on 20 July, followed by 12 days of resurfacing along Leycroft Road from 1 August.
Man dies days after being diagnosed with ‘incredibly rare condition’
Brendon West was just 26 when he died less than a week after being diagnosed with a rare conditionA pre-inquest review hearing was held at Vantage House in Huntingdon(Image: Cambridgeshire Live)A 26-year-old man died after being diagnosed with an “incredibly rare condition”, an inquest has heard. Brendon West died on July 25, 2025, less than a week after being diagnosed with a rare condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).A pre-inquest review hearing was held on Tuesday, June 23, at Vantage House in Huntingdon by senior coroner David Heming. Brendon’s mum, Belinda West said that Addenbrooke’s Hospital were “exceptionally good”.The pre-inquest heard Belinda claim that she felt that if Brendon was transferred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, rather than another hospital, “we wouldn’t be here [at an inquest] today”.The pre-inquest heard that Brendon was treated for a condition called immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) before a later diagnosis of TTP. During the hearing, Belinda said that TTP was ruled out at one point but asked “how can you rule out a condition if you don’t test for it?”She believes that by medical professionals treating him for ITP, it “excavated his TTP”. Mr Heming said that the case is a “complex area” and described Brendon’s diagnosis as an “incredibly rare condition”.It was agreed by the coroner and all interested persons that a jury was not necessary. Brendon’s family, the North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, and Cambridge University Hospital Trust were identified as interested persons.A haematology expert will be commissioned by the coroner’s court for a report which Mr Heming said could take “months upon months upon months”. He added that there “maybe some national learning here”.A future pre-inquest hearing date is due to be set. Following that hearing, a final inquest date will be decided.
