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All you need to know about May’s Staffordshire elections
Residents in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Cannock and Tamworth will cast their votes in their council elections on 7 May
Another spring, another set of council elections in Staffordshire – this year on 7 May.
History was made in the county last year, when Reform UK swept to power with a huge majority to take control of Staffordshire County Council, ending 16 years of Conservative reign.
2026 will bring the ballot boxes to several of the county’s boroughs including an all-out election in Newcastle-under-Lyme, meaning all the authority’s seats are up for election.
In the south of the county, both Tamworth Borough and Cannock Chase District councils will see voters select a third of their seats.
So who is in control of them at the moment, how can you vote – and why could this be the last time people can vote for these authorities?
A final roll of the dice?
These elections could see local authorities change hands between political parties.
But it is also the last chance to vote before these councils are set to become abolished and replaced in a major shake-up of local government.
Ministers will make a decision on how the new authorities will be broken up but the plan is for Staffordshire to get a mayor overseeing two – or three – new unitary authorities.
This means those councillors elected on 7 May in Newcastle, Tamworth and Cannock, might only serve 1-2 years in post before facing another vote.
Click here to see the BBC interactive
Political pick ‘n’ mix
Castle House, headquarters for Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council where all 44 seats are being contested
The three authorities holding elections this May are all what are known as second-tier councils – so they are responsible for services like bin collections, leisure centres and planning. Staffordshire County Council manages others including social services and education.
Traditionally, the market town of Newcastle is seen as a barometer for how political parties are performing nationally.
Which means, like other areas currently, it is no longer seen as just a two-horse race for votes.
As it stands, Newcastle is a bit of a political pick ‘n’ mix.
The area was seen for decades as a red-wall borough, represented by a Labour MP for 100 years, until a Tory MP was elected in 2019 – Labour then won it back in 2024.
Since 2018, the Conservatives have run the council and they strengthened their hold by taking majority control in 2022.
This year there are 44 seats up for election, a contest which could see some swings in power.
The Conservatives admit they are on the defensive and it will be a tough set of elections. As do Labour, who are defending fewer seats.
Both parties will be battling for votes against Reform, who will look to maintain their momentum from 2025.
Independents and the Greens appear confident they could cut through and hope to make some gains.
Cannock and Tamworth
Cannock Chase has also been considered as historical Labour heartlands and the district council is led by a Labour administration.
The party holds 18 of the total 36 seats but this could be a difficult election for Labour with the Tories currently forming the main opposition party on the council.
Even though this election will only see a third of the seats contested, battles for those 12 seats could easily see a shift in power.
In 2025, Reform took all eight of Cannock’s county divisions, a success they will be looking to build on this year. The Greens will also be looking to expand their representation here.
Some of the wards up for grabs include Norton Canes, Hednesford and Brereton.
Over to Tamworth, which changed hands in 2024 when Labour took control for the first time in 21 years.
The borough was once was known as a safe Conservative parliamentary seat but has recently become a competitive one after Labour won a by-election and then defended it in the general election of 2024.
Labour will be looking to defend their wards with a third of seats up for grabs while Reform, the Tories and the Greens, will look to challenge them.
Key dates
- 9 April – Close of nominations for people to stand in May’s elections
- 28 April – Deadline to apply for a proxy vote, where you can name someone to vote on your behalf. It is also the deadline to apply for a voter authority certificate if you do not have ID like a driver’s licence or passport. You need to show ID at a polling station to be able to vote
- 7 May – Polling stations open at 07:00 BST and close at 22:00. If you are in the queue by 22:00, you will be able to vote but do not forget your ID
The victory lap
The votes for Newcastle-under-Lyme and Tamworth will be counted overnight so we can expect results to start to come in from midnight, with an idea on how parties have performed during the early hours of 8 May.
Counting will start for Cannock Chase district during the day on that Friday, with a result expected by early afternoon the same day.
The full list of candidates standing in your area is available by putting your postcode in the checker above, or on your local council website.
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April 19, 2026
‘High risk’ man still wanted by police months after recall to prison

A high-risk offender is still wanted by police months after being recalled to prison. Jordan Thomas, 25, remains wanted by Essex Police four months after an appeal was first issued.
Jordan, from Chelmsford, is wanted for a number of offences. He is also known as SJ and Yung and is described as 5ft 9ins tall. He is of medium build and has short brown hair.

Thomas is wanted for offences including serious assault, harassment and robbery. Crimestoppers has listed him as a high-risk and prolific offender.
He has a previous history of drugs, self-harm, weapons, violent behaviour, and breaches of bail conditions. Essex Police says he has links to Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Essex.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts should call Essex Police on 101. Alternatively, they can contact police online.
April 19, 2026
Award-winning village pub with pretty beer garden and cosy dining pods

The pub is located in a village set in open countryside ideal for the warmer months ahead
Those who live in Cambridge may often find that they choose not to venture far from the city, since there are plenty of great meal spots dotted around. Around 15 minutes from Cambridge by car, nestled in the countryside, is the quaint village of Madingley, home to The Three Horseshoes.
The Three Horseshoes is an award-winning pub which was voted Cambridgeshire Dining Pub of the Year in 2018 and holds two AA Rosettes. It features a garden with plentiful space, two dining pods, and a fully enclosed, heated garden room that sits at the back of its dining room.
The dining pods are fully enclosed with heating and pretty lights and the garden is spacious and picturesque. Described by the pub’s website as a ‘romantic’, Madingley is a beautiful countryside spot.
Offering a rustic and charming appeal, the thatched country pub has earned a positive reputation online. One person described the pub as having a “cosy atmosphere” on Google and another said it was the “best Sunday roast” they have had around Cambridge.
The Three Horseshoes has a unique wine list focusing on the Langeudoc-Roussillon region of France, where the team pride itself on visiting and meeting wine makers many times. It also offers four local real ales and a range of lager and fruity cocktails.
With a modern British and European style for food, the menu offers classics like pie of the day and a 14oz sirloin on the bone to signature dishes like BBQ guineafowl and an aubergine schnitzel dish. A pie of the day sounds like the perfect way to indulge while sunning in their beer garden.
April 18, 2026
A520 updates as police sent to ‘bad’ Stoke-on-Trent smash

Police are reportedly at the scene of a ‘bad crash’ on a busy city road. Officers have been seen on the A520 in Weston Coyney where traffic is said to be building in both directions.
A live map from Google is showing the crash has occurred between Park Hall Road and the turning for Park Hall Country Park’s Bolton Gate car park. Currently traffic is back towards Winterfield Lane in one direction while Weston Road is queueing back past the Weston Coyney Road junction.
We have contacted the emergency services for details on the collision.
Further updates will appear in our dedicated blog below.
April 18, 2026
Witnesses sought after fatal collision in Kings Langley

Police appeal for information and dashcam footage following motorbike and car crash
Author: Katy WhitePublished 2 hours ago
Last updated 2 hours ago
Appeals have been made for witnesses, information, and dashcam footage following a tragic collision in Kings Langley.
The crash occurred approximately at 1am today, 18th April, on Watford Road near Hunton Bridge, involving a red Triumph motorbike and a red Toyota Prius.
The motorcyclist, a man in his 40s, suffered critical injuries and was transported to hospital, where he sadly died shortly after arrival.
The Prius driver is cooperating with police enquiries.
Sergeant Nicholas Kane from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire Road Policing Unit extended condolences to the victim’s family.
Sgt Kane stated, “I am appealing to anyone who may have been driving in the area at the time and saw the events leading up to the collision to please get in touch. If you have a dash cam fitted, please review your footage as you may have captured something that could assist us with our enquiries.”
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.
April 18, 2026
DWP Universal Credit claimants to receive £5,098 annual boost
The Department for Work and Pensions is providing Universal Credit claimants with a £5,098 benefits increase from April. Single claimants aged 25 and over will now receive £424.90 per month, rising from £400.14, which amounts to approximately £5,098 per year.
Benefit rates are adjusted every April. This year, rates officially increased on April 6 (the start of the 2026/27 tax year), with the new figures taking effect for many benefits from April 7.

For some Universal Credit claimants, however, the higher rates will not kick in until around June. This is because the new rate will not be paid until the first assessment period commencing on or after April 7.

Couples claiming Universal Credit will also see their payments increase, with those under 25 now receiving £528.34 per month, up from £497.55.
For couples where both partners are aged 25 or over, monthly payments have risen from £628.10 to £666.97, reports Birmingham Live.
Single claimants under 25 have likewise seen an improvement, with the standard allowance climbing from £316.98 to £338.58 per month.
Labour Party Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms said: “The welfare system we inherited has for too long locked disabled people and people with long term conditions out of work.
“Laws coming into force will change that, reducing projected expenditure on Universal Credit by almost £1billion.”
He continued: “Simultaneously boosting the standard allowance and investing £3.5billion in employment support means we’re creating a welfare system that backs people to work and helps them build a better future.”
Those claiming benefits are not required to take any action, as the uplifts will be applied automatically. Universal Credit is set to rise by 2.3 per cent, with the full breakdown of the updated rates as follows:
- Standard allowance, single under 25 – rising from £316.98 to £338.58
- Standard allowance, single 25 or over – rising from £400.14 to £424.90
- Joint claim, both under 25 – rising from £497.55 to £528.34
- Joint claim, one or both 25 or over – rising from £628.10 to £666.97
April 18, 2026
GMB Union criticises government for ignoring industries in new scheme

British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme bypasses ceramics sector, sparking backlash
The scheme is neglecting industries like ceramics
Author: Vicky HainesPublished 17 hours ago
Last updated 16 hours ago
Members of the GMB Union have expressed outrage at the government’s exclusion of certain key manufacturing sectors from the new British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS).
Announced today, BICS aims to reduce electricity bills by up to 25% for more than 10,000 manufacturers from April 2027.
However, the scheme has come under fire for neglecting industries like ceramics, which play a critical role in the UK’s manufacturing landscape.
According to GMB, the government’s oversight is a “total disgrace,” as gas-intensive industries such as ceramics have been left without much-needed support.
Gary Smith, GMB General Secretary, said: “Gas intensive industries in the UK have been shamefully ignored by the Government in this announcement – it’s a total disgrace.
“GMB members grafting in our world-famous ceramics sector and making the bricks that build our nation are sickened at the lack of support.
“Workers in manufacturing companies across the UK need urgent help – this isn’t it.”
Exclusion of Ceramics Raises Concerns
The exclusion of the ceramics sector has prompted Labour MPs from the Potteries to warn of possible closures and job losses among ceramic manufacturers.
They have secured a meeting with the business secretary to review the situation for tableware, giftware, and tiles.
During a session in the House of Commons, Gareth Snell, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central highlighted that the exclusion threatens jobs and could lead to more factory closures, potentially offshoring production and increasing reliance on high-carbon imports, counteracting the government’s housebuilding targets.
Gareth said: “There is now recognition that Britain faces an industrial energy crisis, and I welcome action for some sectors. But the ceramics sector has once again been left out.
“There is nothing here for tableware, giftware, tiles, clay pipes or bricks despite the government’s target to build 1.5 million homes. Instead, we’ll import bricks made in coal fired kilns and shipped halfway around the world, rather than making them in North Staffordshire.
“Ceramics employs tens of thousands of people, supports exports, and underpins British manufacturing. We were told help would come in the Budget, then the Autumn Statement, then the Industrial Strategy and now BICS. Factories will close because of this decision. Jobs will be lost.
“The government must decide whether it is prepared to act, or whether it is content to oversee the end of domestic ceramics production in the UK.”
Government Response
Despite criticism, the government highlights BICS as a pillar of their modern Industrial Strategy, aiming to bolster competitiveness and support sectors like automotive, aerospace, steel, and pharmaceuticals.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves stated: “This Government has the right plan for the economy: backing British industry, cutting electricity costs, and building a stronger, more resilient future.
“Today’s announcement will cut energy bills for over 10,000 manufacturers, helping businesses to compete, win and create good jobs across the country, and to deliver our modern Industrial Strategy.”
Business Secretary Peter Kyle added: “We are a government of action, and when global instability puts businesses under pressure we’ll always do what’s needed to support them and ensure Britain’s resilience.
“By extending the reach of BICS by 40 percent, we’re acting decisively to tackle the number one issue that businesses face head-on.”
The government asserts that the extended eligibility targets energy-intensive firms facing high electricity costs, with 2027 seeing significant savings anticipated.
The BICS programme, expanding by 40%, will include a one-off additional payment covering support from April 2026.
A second consultation on regulatory changes is underway until 14th May 2026, with forthcoming legislation expected by Autumn 2026.
First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.
April 18, 2026
Bedfordshire Rugby | Farmers v County at GR in May : Bedford Blues RFC

Posted: 17th April 2026

Bedford Blues are pleased to again be hosting local representative rugby next month as Bedfordshire Farmers face Bedfordshire County on Friday 29th May (Kick Off 7pm).
Adult tickets are just £6 when purchased online with Kids for a Quid! Tickets are already on sale, click here to secure your spot and support community rugby in our region.
The two sides will battle it out on the hallowed turf for the second successive year, following a 50-21 victory for Bedfordshire Farmers in 2025.
Reformed in 2023, the Farmers side remain unbeaten from their previous four fixtures, lastly taking the field in December when they defeated a Three Counties Farmers side.
Looking to inflict a first defeat will be a representative County side again put together by Blues’ Head of Women’s Rugby, Tim Clarke. Composed of players from local teams spread across the county to hopefully match a similar quality to the Farmers, expect another intriguing battle at GR.
To enhance your matchday experience, hospitality will be available in The Burrow at the Blues with a street-food feast from Chicken George offering the perfect way to start your weekend. Book online here for just £29pp.
Bedford Blues would like to thank the following sponsors for helping to make the game possible:
Match Sponsors – NFU Mutual Bedfordshire Division

Match Ball Sponsors – Custom Concrete

Man of the Match Sponsors – Agrii
Goldington Road loves a Battle of Bedfordshire! Secure your tickets now.

April 18, 2026
The 26-year-old Cambridgeshire town with ‘three dentists but only one pub’

Locals praise the town’s transport links and green spaces – but they’d like to see more added to the town
A look around Cambourne, near Cambridge
People who live in a ‘new’ Cambridgeshire town have praised its transport and green spaces – but they’d like to see more pubs and restaurants. Up until 26 years ago, Cambourne near Cambridge didn’t exist.
Since then, the town has grown with more people moving in, and more facilities opening. However, some residents still feel the town could have more. As part of the Exploring Cambridgeshire series, we spoke to residents about what it’s like to live in Cambourne.
Aaron Kersey, who has lived there since 2022, wants to see more pubs and restaurants in Cambourne. “We have three dentists, but only one pub,” said Aaron.
He added: “Something like another supermarket would also be good. However, it [Cambourne] has what you need. The road networks are fine and safe. The only thing it needs is a train station, but there is talk about one coming.”
A long-term resident, who wished to remain anonymous, likes Cambourne’s green spaces. He said: “It’s got quite a lot of good community things going on as well, like a lot of different clubs and activities.
“I think it’s also good for transport.” However, the man would also like to see other things come to the town. He added: “Things like a public swimming pool and a change of shops would be good. It would bring more footfall in.”
Michael Abbott moved to Cambourne around 10 years ago, and admitted its “great” transport. He said: “We have regular buses that take you to Cambridge, so you can get into the city centre quite easily.
“We have a good supermarket, but it would be good to see one more to add a bit more variety. Cambourne is also a cheaper place to live if you need to commute to Cambridge for work.”
Just like Aaron, Michael would like to see more places to eat and drink. He added: “The local pub is good, but it would be good to have another one, again for more variety.”
Kin Leu moved to Cambourne a few years ago with his wife and two children. He said: “My wife chose our house because we have two young children, and it’s close to bus stops. So, they can get on the bus safely.” Kin also wants to see more added to Cambourne.
He said: “For me, I would like one more petrol station and maybe another supermarket. I used to walk to Morrisons sometimes, but another supermarket would be nice.
“We have a good football pitch, but sports could be a bit better. A public swimming pool would be good.”
Christina Church has “no complaints” about living in Cambourne. She said: “Being in the centre means I am only a few minutes away from what I need, especially Morrisons.
“We have some fast food places like fish and chips and Domino’s, which are good.” Christina praises the transport, but also wishes the town could have a train station.
“If somewhere like Waterbeach can have one, why can’t we?,” added Christina. She said: “It’s a growing town and we need that sort of thing. It would also make it more desirable to live here.
“I also love the green spaces here. They are lovely to walk my dog around.”
April 17, 2026
Caudwell Children partner with Slater and Gordon | InYourArea

A charity which delivers life-changing services to disabled and neurodivergent children, and their families, has formed a new partnership with a national law firm.
Caudwell Children has worked with young people and their families since 2000 to enable them to have the opportunity, support, and freedom to realise their individual potential, despite the challenges they face in their everyday lives.
The charity offers a Family Support service, which can be accessed via their support line, live chat, email, or in person at a local Hub across Staffordshire.
Caudwell Children’s other services include autism assessments, specialist equipment and funding, Kids’ Activities Clubs, and occupational therapy.
Now, Caudwell Children has partnered with Slater and Gordon, which will sponsor its Family Workshops.
The workshops are designed to empower families by offering valuable, practical, and accessible resources that focus on some of the key challenges they may experience when raising a disabled or neurodivergent child.
The sessions, most of which can be delivered virtually to families across the UK, cover topics including understanding autism and wellbeing, sleep, eating and nutrition, and meeting sensory needs.
Slater and Gordon will also deliver education sessions to Caudwell Children’s team, to enable them to support families in even more ways.
Additionally, they will be hosting legal clinics for anyone connected to the charity, to ensure they are aware of their legal rights.
These areas include education law, employment law, clinical negligence and family law.
Tom Sherratt, corporate partnerships manager at Caudwell Children, said: “We are really proud of the work we do to help disabled and neurodivergent children reach their potential.
“Our Family Workshops, which will be generously sponsored by Slater and Gordon, were developed in consultation with disabled and neurodivergent people, including parents and beneficiaries.
“The sessions offer practical strategies, and help families better understand and support each other.
“Partnering with a law firm also enables us to provide expert legal support to our families.
“This is very timely, as we are seeing an upturn in demand for legal advice, especially following the recent Schools White Paper and proposed changes to SEND provision.
“Working with Slater and Gordon will enable us to expand what we deliver.
“We are looking forward to building a lasting relationship with the Slater and Gordon team, and to working together for the benefit of families with disabled and neurodivergent children.”
Kate Sweeney, principal lawyer at Slater and Gordon, added: “For over 25 years, Caudwell Children has worked tirelessly to increase the help and support available to families who otherwise face huge NHS waiting lists for assistance.
“Through its Family Support Sessions, the team are able to offer bespoke interventions in a range of areas that families experience every single day – making this a truly invaluable service.
“We are very pleased to be sponsoring these workshops, as well as delivering education and legal clinics, and look forward to building our partnership with this fantastic charity and bringing even more specialist support to families who need it.”
April 17, 2026