Trains are expected to be delayed by at least 30 minutes

Some train lines running through Cambridgeshire have been blocked after a vehicle hit a railway bridge. Trains between Stevenage, Cambridge and Peterborough are expected to face disruption this afternoon (Friday, August 7) until at least 4pm.

A National Rail spokesperson said: “A vehicle striking a bridge between Stevenage and Cambridge/Peterborough means that some lines are blocked. As a result, trains running between these stations may be delayed by up to 30 minutes or revised.”

The train routes affected are:

• Grand Central between London Kings Cross and Bradford Interchange / Sunderland
• Great Northern between Moorgate and Stevenage, and also between London Kings Cross and Letchworth Garden City / Cambridge / Ely / Kings Lynn
• Hull Trains between London Kings Cross and Hull
• LNER between London Kings Cross and Lincoln / Leeds / Bradford Forster Square / Harrogate / York / Newcastle / Edinburgh / Aberdeen / Inverness
• Lumo between London Kings Cross and Glasgow Queen Street / Edinburgh
• Thameslink between Brighton and Cambridge / Horsham and Peterborough

A speed restriction is in place and Network Rail has sent engineers to the site. Passengers are advised to check their journeys before they travel.

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Social enterprise The Green Robin, which promotes environmentally friendly living, lodged a planning application seeking to establish the gallery in Manse Road.

Council planners have approved the conversion of a gym in Newmains to make way for a gallery.

Social enterprise The Green Robin, which promotes environmentally friendly living, lodged a planning application seeking to establish the gallery in Manse Road.

The premises would be a hub that supports community access to arts, craft and creative well being activities. There would be opportunities for artist to exhibit and develop their practice with members of the public viewing these works and owning the paintings.

Giving the plans the green light, the council planners report states: “The site is predominately commercial premises with residential properties directly across the road.

“The site is part of terraced building with commercial units on the floor and flats above.

“The site is located within a local centre and is on a main bus route with some parking laybys on Manse Road.

“It is acknowledged that there is no dedicated of street parking however the property has been used as a gym for a number of years also without the benefit of off-street parking.

“There are however some off-street parking provided on Manse Road that can be used and the site is on a main bus route. There are no external alterations being proposed.

“The proposed use is considered acceptable and will not have a detrimental impact on neighbouring commercial units or residential properties and will bring back a vacant unit back into use.

“No representations were received following the neighbour notification process.

It is considered that the proposal complies with the relevant policies contained within National Planning Framework 4 and the North Lanarkshire Local Development Plan. It is therefore recommended that planning permission be granted subject to conditions.”

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A serial sex attacker has been found guilty of murdering two women and almost killing a third.

Simon Levy, 40, suffocated Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo, 53, in March 2025, before using the same method to kill Sheryl Wilkins, 39, five months later while on bail.

He has also been found guilty of violently raping another woman in January last year, before leaving her for dead.

Detectives now believe Levy may have claimed scores of victims, carrying out daily attacks for years.

He had a shocking record for sexual violence. In February this year Levy was convicted of carrying out 11 sexual assaults between April 2022 and May 2025.

In total, he has now been convicted of carrying out two murders, two rapes, a near-fatal suffocation and 13 sexual assaults.

Now there are calls for a public inquiry into the scandal as campaigners say the case makes a mockery of police and CPS promises to tackle violence against women and girls in the wake of Sarah Everard’s murder by Scotland Yard officer Wayne Couzens.

And police believe there are many other women who have not yet come forward.

The body of Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo was found face down in a stairwell of a disused block of flats in Southwark, south-east London

Levy claimed his second murder victim smothering Sheryl Wilkins, leaving her body in a car park just minutes from his own home

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Levy – pictured in the latest available police custody photo – murdered two women and attempted to kill a third 

In a brutal attack on January 21, 2025, he jumped on a prostitute, breaking her collar bone before raping her. He suffocated the woman, leaving her near death, with one hand squeezing her neck, and the other covering her face with a finger down her throat.

On March 17 Levy struck again using the same tactic.

The body of Carmenza Valencia-Trujillo was found face down in a stairwell of a disused block of flats in Southwark, south-east London.

The 53-year-old drug user’s neck had been compressed, her face smothered and a pipe smeared with his blood was found beside her, the court heard.

Days before Levy was arrested on April 1 over the murder, he told police visiting his home as part of routine convicted sex offender checks that he never went out.

It was a blatant lie that a simple police computer check would have exposed.

Scotland Yard decided to release him on bail after the cause of Ms Valencia-Trujillo’s death was deemed to be ‘unascertained’ in a post-mortem examination.

On August 28, Levy claimed his second murder victim, smothering Sheryl Wilkins and leaving her body in the same location as the earlier rape attack, just minutes from his  home.

Police arrested him on September 5 after he was identified at the scene on a facial recognition camera.

He was remanded in custody three days later.

Details of Levy’s convictions earlier this year have been kept secret for fear of prejudicing his subsequent murder trial, which ended today.

Now furious women have hit out at the criminal justice system, asking: ‘Who is there to protect women and girls?’

The offender wearing glasses and a hoodie on Tottenham High Road in August last year. Ms Wilkins’s body was found by officers on patrol approximately a day after this image was taken

A blue North Face jacket recovered from Levy’s home matched the one he was wearing on CCTV

Levy, marked by the green arrow, pictured with Ms Wilkins

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The Daily Mail can reveal that no officer has lost their job as a result of the blunders in the Levy case.

The Met has referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC).

Ahead of the verdict, Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Kevin Southworth claimed that police were ‘quick’ to realise their errors, adding: ‘We’re very quick to hold ourselves to account, quite rightly in the way the public would expect. 

‘So we’ve self-referred to the IOPC to answer those questions: What did our officers know, and what should they have done if they didn’t do it?’

Describing him as ‘a prolific predatory monster’, he said: ‘The offending of Simon Levy is amongst the most harrowing we’ve seen in recent times… While there were multiple investigations, ultimately the collective system failure, and his bail reports, left him free to go on to offend in the most harrowing manner imaginable.’

He admitted that Levy didn’t ’stand out’ to police at the time from the 10,000 registered sex offenders in London.

The double killer, who also used the aliases Levi and Shamus, was never on the Met’s ‘V100 list’ of the most dangerous offenders to women and girls.

Mr Southworth said: ‘While we know now Levy is one of the most dangerous offenders we have encountered in recent times, by spring last year he was one of many people on the registered sex offenders list, but not necessarily one that would have stood out.’

The number of sex offenders being managed in the community grew by 1,000 in the last year alone.

Jurors were told that Levy was earlier this year convicted of 11 sexual assaults, carried out between April 2022 and May 2025

‘All of that adds up to one unfortunate, immutable truth, which is we have a very high number of sexually violent people, that is incredibly challenging to manage,’ Mr Southworth admitted.

‘We face unfortunately a very vast and rising tide of sexual violence. What has stood this man out now to us all is the acceleration in his offending.’

Lisa Ramsarran, Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS, said: ‘There was relevant information that was not provided to the court when bail applications were being considered.

‘We cannot know what decisions the courts would have made had different or stronger representations been advanced. But we recognise our responsibility and we are sorry for the shortcomings.’

Harriet Wistrich, chief executive of from Centre for Women’s Justice, told the Daily Mail’s podcast: ‘It is a very, very shocking case in terms of the number of opportunities there were to have stopped him.

‘We end up with two women dead, two children who’ve lost their mother and families that have lost their loved ones as a consequence of failures.

‘After all the so-called lessons supposed to have been learned following the Worboys case, we were told that this would not be repeated.

‘Then obviously following some of the recent terrible cases involving police perpetrators like Couzens and Carrick. That still, this kind of level of routine failure at every stage, and not just the police, but the courts as well – it just very sadly inspires a complete lack of confidence in our criminal justice system.

‘At a time when women are rightly very concerned about the decision by the Government to early release serious sexual offenders, we are supposedly assured that they will be monitored tightly when they are released.

‘How can any of them have any confidence whatsoever that they will be safe?’

She warned that Levy was unlikely to be the only case where predators are slipping through the net, adding: ‘There must be an independent investigation, if not a public inquiry into this case because of the scale of the failures.

‘Because these things just keep happening again and again. Something very radical has to change.’

Police chiefs fear that Labour’s soft justice reforms will make matters worse as forces are under pressure not to remand offenders in custody.

The National Police Chiefs Council has estimated that the Government’s sentencing reforms to jail fewer offenders by ditching shorter prison sentences and releasing inmates earlier will lead to a six per cent surge in crime.

Britain’s top officer Sir Mark Rowley recently warned: ‘We’ve got extraordinarily prolific and dangerous offenders who there would not have been any doubt about, even a couple of years ago, we would have been remanding in custody.

‘They are now being bailed and repeatedly bailed, then repeat offending and that troubles us greatly.

‘The system across the country is struggling.’

This is the moment a heavily pregnant shopkeeper was punched, thrown to the floor and dragged across her own store by robbers who had walked in posing as customers.

CCTV showed the incident at a sportswear shop on Avenida Gilberto Elizalde, Argentina, on August 5.

The footage shows at least four thieves taking part, with one remaining at the entrance as a lookout while the other three went inside carrying shopping bags.

The first man through the door seized the owner’s daughter-in-law and steered her towards the rear of the premises, while the two others confronted the owner, Gabriela, 39, as she tried to run for the street.

They grabbed her by the arms, struck her, threw her down and hauled her along the floor as she fought back, continuing the attack until she stopped responding and lay motionless.

A third member of the gang emptied the till and helped himself to stock while the assault was under way.

As the men made for the exit, the shopkeeper got back to her feet and tried to block them, only to be beaten a second time before they escaped.

The raiders took cash, merchandise and personal belongings from both women, fleeing in a red Peugeot Partner van that was reportedly being driven by a woman, with a second car said to have been waiting nearby.

A further security camera captured them attempting to steal a car just 15 minutes later, though that driver realised what was happening, reversed away sharply and got clear.

The daughter-in-law, named as Maria, described the raid in an interview with a television channel.

She said: ‘We had sat down seconds earlier after tidying the shop. When these people came in, and we realised what was happening, we tried to get out. Two people grabbed Gabriela, threw her on the floor, dragged her and attacked her.

‘One of the robbers took me to the back, grabbed me by the hair, threw me on the floor and slapped me so I would not try to look at him. Then he threatened to shoot me.’

The owner confirmed that both she and her unborn baby were unharmed despite the violence, though she was left aching all over from the struggle.

She said: ‘I did not want them to take me to the back because I felt that would be worse.’

Her sister Belen said the shopkeeper was resting with raised blood pressure and had been unable to sleep, but that the baby was fine.

She said: ‘The important thing is that she gets better now and stops being affected by her nerves.’

The men remain at large.

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Manchester United have been long‑time admirers of Aurelien Tchouameni, but the chances of a summer deal have taken a hit after recent developments in the transfer window

Manchester United are set to receive clarity on Aurelien Tchouameni’s situation at Real Madrid following Barcelona’s opening bid for Rodri from Manchester City. Madrid had already begun their pursuit of the World Cup winner before Barca joined the race, and the Catalan club’s move could now shape how Tchouameni’s future develops.

While a new deal is on the table for Rodri, he has previously made it clear that he is open to a return to Spain. It now appears the midfielder favours a move to Camp Nou over Jose Mourinho’s side, and Manchester Evening News understands that City will reluctantly not stand in his way if they get a fee that reflects his worth.

On Friday, Barca tabled an offer that fell well short of City’s valuation. The Athletic reported that the bid was €45m (£38m) plus add‑ons while the Blues are holding out for a fee in excess of £60million.

United, meanwhile, have long admired Tchouameni, having made their interest known back in April. Manchester Evening News understands that United ran background checks on the 26-year-old several months ago and would be interested in a deal if he becomes available.

But Madrid have shown no willingness to sell the 26‑year‑old, who has agreed terms on a new five‑year deal at the Bernabeu. However, the lack of official confirmation has only added intrigue around his future.

A deal for the France international now looks unlikely following the latest developments with Rodri.

Barca could now be set to deal United another transfer blow, coming shortly after their decision not to trigger the option to sign Marcus Rashford permanently.

Their refusal to pay £26m for Rashford following his successful loan spell last season meant United missed out on a valuable chance to raise much‑needed funds.

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United officials are still debating whether to push ahead with a third midfield signing after spending £85m on Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans last month.

With Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo, Michael Carrick already has four senior midfielders competing for two spots.

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Officers seized the 49 boxes of nitrous oxide, worth around £8,500, when they found an abandoned car while out on patrol across Great Lever and Daubhill on Sunday, August 2.

They also were granted two closure orders for shops on Derby Street, Daubhill, and the following Monday officers also discovered steroids in a raid on a house on Grosvenor Street, Kearsley.

Sergeant Daniel Richards, from Greater Manchester Police’s Bolton Neighbourhood Team, said: “The last few days have seen several successes for our team – taking illicit and dangerous drugs off the streets, and working with partners to secure the closure of shops suspected of criminality.

“While we will always work to tackle these sorts of issues, our work can take many forms, from proactive patrols to local engagement and preventative work with the local council and other teams to address issues affecting residents in our area.

Nearly 50 boxes were seized (Image: GMP)

“I would urge anyone with anyone with issues to please get in touch with us, as it all informs our work and we will do what we can to help you.”

The force says the three actions were part of a proactive crime-fighting blitz aimed at taking dangerous drugs off the streets of Bolton.

They say it is also aimed at ensuring businesses follow the relevant laws and guidance to prevent anti-social behaviour and criminality.

The boxes of nitrous oxide were found in an abandoned car (Image: GMP)

Nitrous oxide is classed as a Class C drug, and police say it can affect people’s senses and cause health issues.

They say several cases in Greater Manchester relating to those using the drug while driving, which have resulted in death or serious injury.

The abandoned vehicle where officers found the nitrous oxide canisters was also found to have had no registered keeper and to have been uninsured.

After finding the steroids on Grosvenor Street, a man was given an out-of-court disposal and a warning.

The two shops on Derby Street were given closure orders for three months each.

Officers say they applied for the closure orders after they received reports of anti-social behaviour surrounding the two shops from members of the public.

The crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire is almost deserted as visitors stay away following the serious injury of a three-year-old boy

The crocodile enclosure at a zoo where a three-year-old boy was injured earlier this summer has been pictured near-empty during what would usually be the attraction’s peak season.

Scores of families were visiting Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire this week during the height of the school holidays.

Yet only a handful ventured into the Tropical House, where the unnamed child sustained serious injuries after being bitten by at least one crocodile.

One visitor, who spent ten minutes inside the building, encountered just a single adult accompanied by a young child, thought to be around seven years old, while families with pushchairs walked straight past the entrance.

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In photographs and footage captured inside, the ordinarily bustling elevated walkways, fitted with safety fencing, stood deserted, with the atmosphere described as “quiet and sombre”.

Notices displayed both inside and outside the Tropical House state that children must be supervised at all times, and caution against carrying them on shoulders or allowing them near handrails.

The building houses several crocodile species, including Nile, Saltwater, and Siamese.

A visitor said that the remainder of the zoo, which features a steakhouse, tea room, and shop, was thriving with families taking advantage of the school holidays.

Police were called to the family-run zoo on June 18 following reports of an incident involving a three-year-old boy, during which he ended up in the crocodile enclosure.

A 30-year-old man, believed to have learning difficulties and who had been on a day out with his carers, was arrested but subsequently released on bail after being deemed not fit for interview.

Owner Tracey Johnson, 55, was praised as a hero after she rushed into the crocodile enclosure to rescue the boy, despite the presence of at least two sizeable Nile crocodiles.

Chris Newman, 67, director of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, described Tracey as “a very courageous and brave lady”.

The boy, whose identity has not been disclosed, is now in a stable condition following the ordeal, and has been receiving treatment at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for approximately six weeks.

His family have revealed that the youngster underwent a nerve graft on his left arm, with hopes that it will restore movement in his hand.

They also said that he endured an arduous 12-hour surgical procedure shortly after the incident, during which he sustained severe tissue damage to both arms, his neck, head and face.

In a statement posted by the boy’s grandmother, the family said: “We were unsure if our son was going to make it and that was the worst feeling in the world.

“The cheeky little boy that we love so much is talking to the nurses, playing using his feet and smiling again. We are amazed at how far he has come.”

Norfolk County Council has launched an inquiry under the Care Act 2014, although they did not provide any care for the man who was arrested.

The Section 42 inquiry is a statutory safeguarding process designed to protect adults with care and support needs from abuse or neglect.

A GoFundMe page has been launched to aid the boy’s recovery and rehabilitation, while also providing the family with financial security as they support him during his hospital stay and in the months ahead.

The link can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-the-family-of-3yr-old-injured-in-crocodile-enclosure.

Ferryhill Town Council’s Members Initiative Fund (MIF) has supported 63 projects and 36 groups since its launch in 2022, with another round of funding now open.

Eligible Ferryhill-based groups can apply for grants between £500 and £1,500 on a rolling basis until the remaining funds are allocated.

A spokesman for Ferryhill Town Council said: “With only limited funds still available this year, the Town Council is urging groups to submit their applications as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

“Applications submitted by August 24 will be considered at the Town Council Meeting scheduled to take place on September 9.”

The council advises interested groups to contact Karen Younghusband, the council’s events and projects officer, to check eligibility and request an application form.

Groups can reach Ms Younghusband by calling 01740 652157 or emailing kyounghusband@ferryhill.gov.uk.

The council warns that applications for general running costs are unlikely to be successful.

Groups with outstanding monitoring reports from previous funding rounds are also ineligible until those requirements are met.

The Members Initiative Fund was created to help community organisations deliver local projects.

At about 9pm on Thursday, August 6, police were alerted by the ambulance service to an address on Alder Close, Pelton.

A woman was found with a single stab wound to her back and was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary, in Newcastle for treatment. She remains in hospital this morning where her condition is described as stable.

(Image: AMELIA ANDERSON)

A man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder later on Thursday evening. He remains in custody and is being interviewed by police.

(Image: AMELIA ANDERSON)

Police can confirm that the suspect and victim were known to each other and officers are satisfied that this an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public.

Officers remain at the scene today while forensic teams complete their examination of the property.

The North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) has confirmed they attended the incident and took one person to hospital.

A spokesperson said: “We received a call at 8.57pm on Thursday (August 6) to reports of an incident at a private address in Pelton, County Durham.

“We dispatched an ambulance crew, a clinical team leader, a crew from our Hazardous Area Response Team, and requested support from our colleagues at the Great North Air Ambulance Service who attended by road.

“One patient was taken to hospital for further treatment.”

Pictures from the scene show a cordon in place around a row of homes. A police van and police car remain parked up at the scene this lunchtime. 

Any witnesses to the incident are asked to call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 470 of August 6.