Brighton & Hove Pride 2026 commenced today, featuring a parade from Hove Lawns to Preston Park, attracting hundreds of thousands. The two-day event includes a concert with over 150 LGBTQ+ performers, and organisers encourage attendees to use public transport due to road closures and large crowds.

Police are conducting an urgent search for Dean Hesketh, 51, who left Royal Preston Hospital on Tuesday. He is described as 5ft 4in, with black hair and blue eyes, wearing a blue surgical mask. Authorities emphasise not to approach him due to a potentially contagious condition.

Emergency services responded to a suspected chemical leak at Moorways Sports Village in Allenton, Derbyshire, on Thursday afternoon. Twelve individuals were treated for breathing difficulties as firefighters and specialist units managed the situation. The centre was evacuated, and surrounding roads were closed to traffic.

Police conducted a series of dawn raids in Mitcham, Merton, arresting 20 individuals and seizing 16 weapons, including two zombie knives and a machete, as part of Operation Haldor. The operation aimed to reduce violence ahead of the Notting Hill Carnival, also recovering drugs valued at £27,000.

Hammersmith Bridge, closed to motor vehicles since 2019 due to structural issues, may remain off-limits for an extended period. Barnes and Hammersmith Electric Light Transit proposes “lightweight autonomous electric pods” to enhance local transport, pending further development and safety assessments.

Sonia Exelby, a 32-year-old British woman, was reported missing after failing to return from a trip to Florida last October. Her body was discovered on October 17 in Marion County. Dwain Hall, 53, has been charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping, with a trial set for November.