Anna Kalinskaya battled back from a set down to defeat Victoria Azarenka in a thrilling semifinal match at the Berlin WTA tournament. Meanwhile, Coco Gauff advanced to the semifinals after her opponent Ons Jabeur retired due to injury. Jessica Pegula also secured her spot in the semifinals after completing her quarterfinal match against Katerina Siniakova. In Birmingham, Ajla Tomljanovic reached her first WTA final in five years, defeating Anastasia Potapova in straight sets.
A recent study by CRIF has identified the UK towns and cities where drivers are at the highest risk of being involved in accidents. According to the study, Oldham, Birmingham, and Luton have the highest probability of collisions, while Shrewsbury, Southport, and St Albans are among the safest areas to drive. The study highlights the importance of granular data in insurance pricing and calls for fairer premiums for motorists.
Approximately 2,000 former military personnel have withdrawn from the Invictus Games, established in 2014 to support wounded and ill service members and veterans. Concerns raised by participants include a departure from the event’s original purpose, an increasing focus on the royal family, and Prince Harry’s involvement. Despite calls for his resignation, public relations expert Ryan McCormick suggests that Harry is unlikely to abandon the Games. The event will hold its 10th anniversary in the UK, with Canada hosting the 2025 edition. Cities vying to host the 2027 Games are Washington DC and Birmingham, with a decision expected soon.
A 16-year-old has been charged with the murder of 17-year-old Muhammad Hassam Ali, who was fatally stabbed in Birmingham’s Victoria Square in January. The suspect will appear in court on Wednesday alongside another 15-year-old boy who was previously charged with murder and remains in custody.
Avant their performances in London, Dublin and Belfast, as well as the iconic Glastonbury, Bloc Party has revealed an intimate warm-up concert. The performance will take place at Birmingham’s O2 Institute on June 28th. Tickets will go on sale at 10 am BST on April 26th. The show will feature a mix of Bloc Party’s greatest hits and their debut album, ‘Silent Alarm’, which they will perform in its entirety. Bloc Party’s Glastonbury performance is also anticipated to take place over the same weekend as their warm-up show, indicating a Saturday or Sunday appearance at the festival.
A homeless couple in Birmingham has been residing in a disused bus stop for seven months, raising concerns over anti-social behavior. Despite support from the charity Trident Reach, the couple has declined offers of accommodation due to their preference for a specific area. Meanwhile, local businesses express worries about the large crowds gathering around the bus stop, which they say affects their livelihood. Birmingham City Council confirms the bus stop is earmarked for removal, and homeless support services continue to offer assistance to the couple.
