Huw Edwards, a former BBC newsreader convicted in 2024 of accessing illegal images of children, entered a poetry competition at Wales' National Eisteddfod under a fake name. Actress and abuse survivor Sera Cracroft criticized his participation, saying it hurt survivors and was too soon after his conviction. The competition's rules keep entrants’ identities secret until winners are announced.
Key Facts
Huw Edwards was convicted in 2024 for accessing 41 illegal images of children, including seven classified as very serious.
He received a six-month suspended sentence and must stay on the sex offenders' register for seven years.
Edwards submitted a poem to Wales’ biggest cultural festival, the National Eisteddfod, under the pseudonym "Y Gelyn" (The Enemy).
Entrants in the poetry contest use fake names, and judges do not know the real identities during judging.
Actress Sera Cracroft, who survived child sexual abuse, said Edwards’ entry was harmful to survivors and inappropriate given the timing after his conviction.
Edwards described his poem as a tribute to his father and said it aimed to challenge a false story about him.
His poem did not win; it was placed in the third tier of entries by the judges.
The National Eisteddfod said it reviews its entry process to make sure it works well but currently keeps entrant identities confidential during judging.
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A street artist named Martin Withers, called the "Minion Man," paints cartoon characters on street cabinets and bollards in Salford, Greater Manchester. His art covers up swear words and vandalism, making the area look nicer and providing something positive for local children.
Key Facts
Martin Withers is a 38-year-old street artist from Little Hulton, Salford.
He earned the nickname "Minion Man" after painting bollards to look like Minions from the Despicable Me movies.
Withers now paints other cartoon characters like The Simpsons and Tom and Jerry on street cabinets.
His paintings cover offensive graffiti and brighten up local street furniture.
The painted cabinets belong to BT Openreach, a company that maintains local phone and internet connections.
Withers has also painted female versions of Minions and a special tribute piece for the NHS.
He has epilepsy and says painting helps him get out and feel good.
People in the community have praised his work for improving the look of the estate.
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A group of fast-moving wildfires near Spokane, Washington has forced about 65,000 people to leave their homes and destroyed over 700 buildings. The fires are fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, making them one of the worst wildfire emergencies in the state’s recent history.
Key Facts
Three wildfires started on the northern outskirts of Spokane over the weekend.
The fires have burned more than 8,000 acres of land, including forests and neighborhoods.
About 65,000 people were ordered to evacuate, up from 4,000 just a day earlier.
Over 700 buildings, mostly homes, have been destroyed or damaged.
More than 1,000 firefighters are working to control the blazes.
No deaths have been confirmed, but there were initially nearly 300 missing person reports.
A 37-year-old was arrested on suspicion of starting the fires deliberately.
The region is experiencing a severe drought and dry vegetation, which helped the fires spread quickly.
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German politicians who survived cancer want to protect former cancer patients from discrimination in loans, insurance, and adoption. They propose a law called the "right to be forgotten" that stops people from being required to disclose their past cancer diagnosis after a set time, usually five years.
Key Facts
The proposal is led by the Social Democrats (SPD), part of Germany’s government.
The policy would apply to about 5.5 million cancer survivors in Germany.
After medically justified periods (around five years), survivors would no longer have to reveal their cancer history.
SPD politicians who had cancer support the idea, including Adis Ahmetović, Manuela Schwesig, and Lars Klingbeil.
A petition for this law has over 55,000 signatures and was started by a parent of a child with cancer.
A survey found 77% of cancer survivors face discrimination in private insurance.
The German Insurance Association opposes fixed time limits, saying risks can remain after treatment.
Cancer Research experts say the risk of new tumors after cancer is not much higher than in the general population.
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Research from the University of Cambridge and the Institute of Cancer Research shows that current guidelines used by GPs in England fail to identify 95% of women under 50 who will develop breast cancer within 10 years. The study suggests the need to update referral criteria to include factors beyond family history, improving early detection and prevention.
Key Facts
Current NICE guidelines mainly rely on family history to decide if women under 50 should get further breast cancer assessments.
95% of women under 50 who develop breast cancer in 10 years are missed by these guidelines.
About 73% of women under 50 who get breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
Researchers compared NICE criteria with a new assessment tool called Boadicea, which considers lifestyle, reproductive history, and genetics.
Boadicea identified eight times more at-risk women than NICE’s current system.
Experts highlight the need to balance more detailed assessments with healthcare resource limits and costs.
Breast Cancer Now supports reviewing NICE guidelines alongside proper investment in services for family history and risk assessment.
NICE acknowledges the research and is reviewing its criteria in light of new findings.
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A plastic factory in northern England, Huntsman Polyurethanes, may face legal action because it released unsafe levels of benzene, a chemical that can cause cancer. The Environment Agency said the factory broke rules by letting benzene escape into the air after changing its pollution control system.
Key Facts
Huntsman Polyurethanes is a chemical plant in Teesside, North Yorkshire, part of the global Huntsman Corporation.
Benzene is a toxic chemical used in plastics and is known to cause cancer, including leukemia.
The factory switched its pollution control method in 2023, which stopped working properly and allowed benzene to leak into the air.
Benzene emissions rose from 13 tonnes in 2022 to 17 tonnes in 2024.
The Environment Agency found multiple breaches of the factory’s pollution permit and is thinking about taking legal action.
The factory claimed it followed all permit rules, but official air quality tests showed serious violations, including a possible 933% exceedance of legal benzene limits in one case.
Experts and campaigners warn these emissions could harm workers and nearby communities, including schools.
The Environment Agency has informed health authorities to check for risks and says the factory’s pollution control has recently improved.
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Rumors on social media led about 60,000 migrants to rush into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco in early August 2026. Many migrants soon returned to Morocco after the surge, but the event caused deadly incidents and prompted Spain to install a sea barrier to prevent future crossings.
Key Facts
Around 60,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Ceuta within a few days.
The surge was sparked by online rumors and videos suggesting the border was open.
Migrants used social media like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to share information on routes and timing.
Over 80 migrants died during the crossing, including drownings and a deadly stampede.
Many migrants traveled by bus, train, and taxi to reach Ceuta.
Spain plans to build a 500-meter-long sea barrier at the border to control crossings.
The main swimming route to Ceuta is about 3 miles around a breakwater barrier.
After the rush, most migrants returned to Morocco, but the incident raised ongoing concerns.
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A wildfire in the south of France uncovered about 400 old shells and explosives from World War Two in the village of Le Porge. The heat from the fire caused many of these munitions to explode, forcing evacuations and preventing access to parts of the area.
Key Facts
A forest fire revealed around 400 World War Two shells and explosives buried in Le Porge, France.
More than 100 explosions occurred during the fire, caused by the heat igniting old munitions.
Over 180 houses were destroyed by the wildfire.
Rescue teams safely removed most explosives, allowing many residents to return home, but some areas remain off-limits.
The discovered weapons included German and French mortar and anti-tank shells.
The fire burned approximately 42,000 hectares, making it one of France’s largest forest fires since World War Two.
The fire lasted about 10 days before being brought under control.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Le Cornu thanked firefighters and confirmed people are gradually returning home.
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Colombia’s outgoing president, Gustavo Petro, has repeated claims that the recent presidential election was rigged and said his successor, Abelardo de la Espriella, is not a legitimate president. Electoral authorities and international observers have rejected these fraud claims, and de la Espriella is set to take office soon.
Key Facts
Gustavo Petro is Colombia’s current president and a left-wing leader.
He alleges that vote counts were changed and that the election was manipulated by foreign powers.
Election officials and international observers say the election was fair.
Abelardo de la Espriella, a conservative, won by about 250,000 votes and will be sworn in as president.
Petro cannot run for a second term due to Colombia’s constitution.
Petro has called for protests and formation of “liberation guards” in rural areas.
Petro had conflicts with US President Donald Trump’s administration during his time in office.
Some experts warn Petro’s statements might encourage violence in conflict-affected areas.
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Three female lions died within a week at Tokyo's Tama Zoo due to suspected heat-related illness during an extreme heatwave in Japan. The lions showed signs of dehydration and organ failure, and the zoo is treating other lions affected by the heat.
Key Facts
Three female lions at Tama Zoological Park in Tokyo died between July 28 and July 31.
Autopsies found systemic dehydration and multiple organ failure in the lions.
The heatwave in Japan included days over 40°C, making it hard for the lions to cool down.
Lions cool their bodies by deep breathing, but high humidity reduced the effectiveness of this process.
Some lions are still unwell but receiving fluids, medication, and vitamins to help them recover.
The zoo has suspended its lion exhibit and safari bus service to protect the animals.
More than 43,000 people in Japan have been hospitalized for heatstroke this summer.
The government has issued heat warnings and encouraged people to wear lighter clothing.
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Japan’s government says it must change how it defends itself by using new military tools like combat drones and artificial intelligence. The country sees China’s growing military activity near Japan as its biggest challenge and is increasing its defense spending and weapons, including long-range missiles.
Key Facts
Japan wants to adapt to new ways of fighting wars, inspired by how drones were used in Ukraine.
Combat drones are a priority for Japan’s coastal defense and will be tested by the Japanese navy soon.
Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said developing these drones quickly is very important.
Toshiba and a startup named Pro Drone plan to develop combat drones together.
Japan is concerned about China's increasing military presence and activities in the Pacific Ocean.
China has grown its military spending and nuclear and missile abilities rapidly and without transparency.
Japan has started placing long-range cruise missiles on islands near Taiwan to strengthen defense.
A special unit in Japan’s Defense Ministry studies strategies to counter China’s military actions.
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A cargo ship was hit by an unknown object in the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, according to a British maritime agency. US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran are continuing, despite Iran denying negotiations.
Key Facts
A cargo vessel was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on April 8, 2026.
The incident happened 20 nautical miles northeast of Al Khasab, Oman.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) is investigating the incident.
No details were given about damage or injuries to the ship or crew.
President Donald Trump said he paused military strikes against Iran after advice from Gulf allies.
Iran denies having talks with the United States but is in contact with Oman about managing the Strait of Hormuz.
Israel expressed concerns about a Gaza plan supported by President Trump after Hamas mentioned disarmament.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipments and a site of strategic importance.
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A police chase in Queensland, Australia, involved a high-speed pursuit through the cities of Ipswich and Brisbane. The chase ended with the arrest of two people by the police.
Key Facts
The police pursuit took place in Queensland, Australia.
The chase moved through Ipswich and Brisbane.
The police caught and arrested two individuals.
The incident was recent, reported about one hour ago.
The chase involved high-speed driving.
Police officers led the pursuit.
Queensland is a state in the northeastern part of Australia.
The event was recorded on video.
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Colombia’s outgoing President Gustavo Petro has repeated claims that the June presidential election was fraudulently manipulated, despite these claims being rejected by election officials and observers. The newly elected President Abelardo de la Espriella is set to take office soon, although Petro and his allies have refused to recognize his victory.
Key Facts
Gustavo Petro narrowly lost the June election to conservative Abelardo de la Espriella.
Petro claims that thousands of vote tally sheets were altered after being sent to the national election agency.
International observers and Colombia’s election authorities have dismissed these fraud claims.
Abelardo de la Espriella’s win was officially confirmed, and he will begin a four-year term on Friday.
Petro called the election "obscure" and accused foreign powers of manipulating the vote.
Petro urged rural groups to form “liberation guards” to resist military forces he accuses of ties with local crime.
Petro’s ally Ivan Cepeda rejects the election outcome and plans protests unless certain conditions are met.
Experts warn Petro’s statements may increase political divisions and justify armed resistance in some regions.
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Captain Ibrahim Traore took control of Burkina Faso in a 2022 coup and has become well-known across Africa for promoting national independence and resisting foreign influence. However, his government has limited political freedoms, faced ongoing security problems, and delayed returning to democracy.
Key Facts
Ibrahim Traore, age 38, led a military coup in Burkina Faso in September 2022.
He has expelled French troops and built closer ties with Russia.
Traore’s government dissolved political parties and postponed civilian rule.
He encouraged local farming and industries to reduce reliance on imports.
Burkina Faso faces ongoing attacks by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Traore often references former leader Thomas Sankara, who symbolized anti-colonialism.
The government formed civilian militia groups to help with security.
Burkina Faso withdrew from the West African states economic group (ECOWAS).
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Despite severe hardships from the ongoing conflict, some people in Gaza are rebuilding a technology scene by working remotely for companies abroad. They face many challenges like poor internet, electricity shortages, and frequent bombings, but tech hubs are emerging to support their efforts.
Key Facts
Gaza suffered a major attack on 7 October 2023, followed by ongoing conflict.
Before the war, NGOs and Google supported building tech start-ups in Gaza.
Many young Gazans had worked in technology to earn money for their families.
The war caused many to lose their homes, jobs, laptops, and family members.
Currently, 80% of Gaza’s population is unemployed and many live in tents among rubble.
Electricity and internet access are unreliable and limited.
New co-working spaces have started appearing to help tech graduates work remotely as coders and developers.
Ongoing bombings and strict controls on goods entering Gaza make recovery uncertain.
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The US-led Board of Peace said Israel will only leave Gaza after Hamas fully disarms. This was stated after a meeting between the Board’s director and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, amid disagreements over a peace deal announced by President Donald Trump.
Key Facts
The Board of Peace says Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza depends on Hamas disarming all weapons.
Hamas must give up light and heavy weapons, and tunnels, before Israel pulls back.
The "Yellow Line" marks where Israeli forces currently stay inside Gaza.
Hamas says it will not follow the deal unless Israel meets its own agreed terms.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government expressed dissatisfaction with the public version of the deal.
Israel has continued military actions in Gaza, killing many Palestinians even after a ceasefire was announced.
The peace deal is being mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and Turkiye.
The mediators and the Board of Peace criticized Israel for attacks on civilians and healthcare in Gaza.
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President Donald Trump said the United States is still talking with Iran despite Iran denying the talks. He warned Iran that it has one last chance to make an agreement about the Strait of Hormuz and its nuclear program or face serious consequences.
Key Facts
President Trump confirmed ongoing US-Iran negotiations.
Iran denies that talks are happening.
The talks focus on the Strait of Hormuz, an important waterway.
The US wants to address Iran’s nuclear activities.
President Trump called this Iran’s “last chance” to reach a deal.
He warned of severe actions, which he described as "decapitation," if Iran does not agree.
The situation is part of ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.
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A new study found that current NHS rules for breast cancer screening miss most women under 50 who are at risk. The rules focus only on inherited genes, ignoring other factors like lifestyle, meaning many younger women who develop breast cancer are not identified early.
Key Facts
NHS breast screening mainly targets women over 50; under 50s are screened only if they have a strong family history of breast cancer.
The current guidelines focus mostly on inherited genes and do not consider lifestyle or other risk factors.
The study used a risk tool called Boadicea that looks at family history, lifestyle, reproductive history, and genetics to better predict risk.
Using Boadicea could identify about 26.5% of women under 50 as higher risk, covering roughly one-third of breast cancer cases in that age group.
Current NHS rules would refer only 1.4% of women under 50 for further checks, capturing just 4.4% of cases.
About 73% of women under 50 who develop breast cancer have no family history, which is why current screening misses many cases.
Researchers suggest NHS review its guidelines, but acknowledge more screening could increase workload and cause anxiety.
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (Nice) said it recognizes the potential for new tools but won’t change guidelines yet.
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Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited the Kumamoto region after a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that killed 38 people and damaged many buildings. Recovery efforts face difficulties due to very hot weather, water shortages, and fuel problems, leaving thousands without basic needs and many staying in crowded shelters.
Key Facts
A magnitude 7.1 earthquake hit Kumamoto, killing 38 people.
One person died from heatstroke while sheltering in a car.
Over 46,000 households still have no water supply.
Many evacuees are in shelters without air conditioning during extreme heat reaching 40°C (104°F).
Temporary housing construction has started in some towns.
Some hotels are offering rooms to displaced people.
A collapsed shopping mall caused a gas explosion that killed two employees.
The mall operator believes the explosion was due to a gas leak after most shoppers had evacuated.
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