Your trusted source for local London, UK news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A fire originating from an electricity substation engulfed a block of flats in Maida Vale, north-west London, early Tuesday morning. The London Fire Brigade reported that around 80 residents were safely evacuated, with no injuries recorded. Firefighters battled the blaze, which was described as technically complex, for several hours.
The 95th anniversary of Amy Johnson's historic solo flight to Australia will be commemorated at Croydon Airport, where she departed in 1930. A biplane flypast and various events aim to inspire future aviation enthusiasts and highlight women's contributions to aviation. Johnson faced significant challenges during her journey, including navigating uncharted territories with limited resources.
Labour councillor Sam Gould received a 22-week suspended sentence after pleading guilty to two counts of indecent exposure involving a teenage girl and a woman. The 33-year-old resigned from his position in Redbridge following the conviction, which included a seven-year sexual harm prevention order.
Two runners documented their London Marathon experience with disposable cameras, capturing emotional moments while raising funds for personal charities. Cameron Crabb completed the race in memory of his mother, while Sian Kearney honored her uncle. Together, they raised over £2,500 for their respective causes.
The Metropolitan Police commissioner warns that without additional government funding, London could see rising rates of knife crime, violence against women, and theft. Sir Mark Rowley highlights a budgetary shortfall that may impede the force's ability to meet national crime reduction targets. The report indicates that the Met aims to expand but faces significant staffing losses without further financial support.
Knightsbridge Tube station has introduced a new step-free entrance and three lifts, enhancing accessibility for travelers. The improvements restore parts of the station that have been closed for nearly a century, benefiting over 13 million annual passengers. Transport for London aims to increase step-free access to half of the network by 2030.
Two protesters were arrested for throwing powder paint on Tower Bridge during the London Marathon. The group Youth Demand claimed responsibility, advocating for the cessation of arms sales to Israel. The paint was deemed non-hazardous, and the marathon proceeded without disruption.
Tigst Assefa set a women's-only world record at the London Marathon, while Sabastian Sawe won the men's race. Over 56,000 participants ran for various charities, with many focusing on finishing rather than their times. The event marked the 45th edition of the marathon, highlighting personal stories of resilience and charity support.
The London Ambulance Service has donated 59 retired ambulances to Ukraine since the war began in 2022. The ambulances, repurposed for humanitarian efforts, are aiding civilians injured in conflict zones. The latest batch of nine ambulances was delivered to the frontline to support ongoing medical care.
The London Assembly urges a review of crowd safety at Notting Hill Carnival due to police fears of a mass casualty event. Chair Susan Hall expressed concerns about crowd density and the Metropolitan Police's capacity to ensure safety after two murders occurred at the festival last year. The assembly calls for stricter guidelines on stewarding and a comprehensive evaluation of crowd management.