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Swifts, known as the "symbol of summer skies," face a dramatic decline, which will be showcased at the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival. The Royal Horticultural Society and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds created a garden to raise awareness about these birds, which rely on healthy insect populations and suitable nesting sites.
A primary school in east London has ordered students to stay indoors due to a buzzard nesting in its playground. The bird, named Brenda by the children, has reportedly swooped on local residents, prompting safety measures from Havering Council, which suggested hiring a falconry expert.
Drug use incidents on the London Underground dropped to 470 in 2024-25, the first decline in three years. The British Transport Police noted a reduction from 589 incidents the previous year, with Hammersmith station recording the highest number at seven. Transport for London remains committed to reducing crime and enhancing safety across its network.
Grosvenor Square in London will undergo a major transformation, featuring the planting of 80,000 bulbs, 44 trees, and 70,000 plants to create wildlife habitats. Funded by Grosvenor, the project aims to reconnect communities with nature and will honor the square's original 1720s design. The revamped square is slated to open in summer 2026.
Train services between Glasgow and London resumed after a tree fell on overhead lines, causing significant disruptions. Network Rail completed repairs, but delays may continue until 19:00 for some routes. Passengers were advised to check travel plans due to ongoing issues with the signalling system.
A runner was hospitalized after a tree fell on her near the River Thames in south-west London. Paramedics responded quickly to the incident at the Thames Path by Barn Elms Boathouse, where the injured woman received treatment. Richmond Council is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Two teenagers received prison sentences for a fireworks attack that killed 76-year-old Robert Price in Dagenham, east London. Nathan Otitodilchukwu, 18, was sentenced to six years, while a 16-year-old received two years and eight months for their roles in the planned assault. The court heard how Price had been subjected to a prolonged campaign of harassment before the fatal incident.
A west London council issued warnings after two individuals died from suspected drug overdoses linked to potent synthetic opioids. The victims, aged 28 and 20, reportedly consumed green pills believed to contain Nitazenes, which are significantly stronger than heroin. Authorities urged the public to avoid such substances and seek medical help if unwell.
A charity in Lambeth, Wheels for Wellbeing, supports disabled individuals in experiencing cycling. The organization aims to make cycling accessible and enjoyable for all. This initiative addresses the need for inclusive recreational activities for people with disabilities.
Tower Bridge lifted its bascules to allow a full-scale replica of Christopher Columbus’s 1492 flagship to enter London on Wednesday. This event marks a significant moment in maritime history, celebrating the legacy of exploration. The replica ship, known as the Nao Santa María, arrives as part of a cultural initiative on the River Thames.