Community

Newbridge Leisure Centre pool closed for essential improvement works

2026-06-20T21:45:59+01:00

Newbridge Leisure Centre's swimming pool is temporarily closed to the public until 17th July to allow a programme of essential improvement works to be carried out.

Wimbledon celebrates Championing Nature Programme with Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust

2026-06-20T21:41:14+01:00

The All England Lawn Tennis Club has just published its ‘Championing Nature One Year Report’, revealing the significant impact of the programme since its launch in May 2025 and marking the programme’s first anniversary with a special celebration event at Wimbledon.

World Cup celebrations could be stressing out your dog, warns pet experts

2026-06-20T21:36:10+01:00

As football fans across the UK prepare for another summer of World Cup action, dog owners are being urged to consider how matchday celebrations may be affecting their pets.

According to fresh dog food brand Years, the combination of cheering, shouting, sudden celebrations, doorbells, visitors and changes to routine can create a stressful environment for many dogs, particularly those that are sensitive to noise or unfamiliar situations. The warning comes as millions of households are expected to tune in for matches over the coming weeks, with pubs, homes and fan zones becoming significantly louder than normal.

Darren Beale, CEO of Years, says many owners don't realise how overwhelming major sporting events can be for dogs. "While we might see the World Cup as a fun social occasion, dogs often experience it very differently,” he commented.

“Sudden shouting, people jumping up from their seats, extra guests in the home and disrupted routines can all be confusing or stressful for some pets. Every dog is different. Some will happily snooze through a match, while others may become unsettled by the noise and activity around them."

According to Years, common signs of stress can include:

Sign	What it could mean
Panting when not hot	Anxiety or nervousness
Pacing around the room	Difficulty settling
Hiding under furniture	Seeking safety
Excessive barking	Reacting to noise or excitement
Lip licking or yawning	Stress signals often missed by owners
Following owners constantly	Looking for reassurance

Five ways to help your dog during the World Cup:

1. Create a quiet retreat: Give your dog access to a separate room, crate or quiet area where they can escape the noise if they choose.

2. Keep routines consistent: Try to stick to normal walking, feeding and bedtime routines, even on match days.

3. Use background sound: Leaving a radio, television or calming music on in another room can help mask sudden cheers and celebrations.

4. Provide enrichment: Lick mats, puzzle feeders and long-lasting chews can help redirect attention and encourage relaxation.

5. Warn guests in advance: Not every dog enjoys being the centre of attention. Ask visitors to give your dog space and allow them to approach people on their own terms.

Darren added: "One of the biggest mistakes owners make is assuming their dog enjoys the party simply because they're in the room.

“Many dogs stay close to their owners for reassurance, not because they're comfortable with what's happening. The best approach is to let your dog choose how involved they want to be. If they prefer a quiet room away from the football, that's absolutely fine."

Dogs and football don't always mix: The team at Years notes that major sporting tournaments often create unusual environments for pets. Fireworks, car horns, garden gatherings, late nights and increased household activity can all contribute to anxiety in some dogs.

"Football should be enjoyable for everyone in the household, including our dogs," Darren said. “A few simple adjustments can make a huge difference and help ensure your pet stays comfortable throughout the tournament."

Wolverhampton foster parent awarded MBE as city calls for more local families

2026-06-20T21:32:23+01:00

A Wolverhampton foster parent was recently awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List recognising her dedication to fostering, supporting many vulnerable children and young people over nearly two decades.

TransPennine Express launches flash group ticket sale with bigger savings

2026-06-19T22:57:48+01:00

TransPennine Express (TPE) is offering groups an even bigger saving this summer with a limited-time increase to its group booking discount.

Wolverhampton Art Gallery shortlisted in national charity’s Family Friendly Museum Award

2026-06-19T22:55:30+01:00

Wolverhampton Art Gallery is shortlisted for the Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Award, the only museum award to be judged by the families who visit.

Countdown to Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet in Nottingham - with extra dates added

2026-06-16T22:10:31+01:00

The countdown is on to the arrival of two breathtaking immersive experiences which promise to transport and enchant Nottingham audiences this summer.

Night-time resurfacing to start on Ring Road St George’s and Chapel Ash island

2026-06-16T22:03:15+01:00

Night-time resurfacing is due to start next month on Ring Road St George’s and Chapel Ash island as the council’s highways improvements continue.

Passenger travel update between Rochdale and Manchester Victoria

2026-06-16T22:00:24+01:00

Passengers are being urged to plan their journeys in advance ahead of vital engineering work taking place between Rochdale and Manchester Victoria later this month.

Strong start for initiative as communities reclaim green spaces

2026-06-16T21:57:02+01:00

A new initiative to bring activities, events and positivity back to green spaces across Wolverhampton has made a strong start, with early sessions attracting high numbers of young people and families.

Sheffield rail safety champion recognised in King’s Birthday Honours

2026-06-15T21:41:37+01:00

TransPennine Express (TPE) Safeguarding and Prevention Lead Steve O’Callaghan has been awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to rail safety.

Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition opening at NEC Campus!

2026-06-15T21:38:54+01:00

This summer, uncover the secrets of ancient Egypt in a ground-breaking immersive experience at NEC Campus, in Birmingham.

Charities and community groups in Birmingham invited to apply for share of new community campaign worth £60,000

2026-06-14T19:58:35+01:00

Charities and community groups across Birmingham are invited to apply for a share of a new nationwide £60,000 community initiative*.

Former Wren honoured with medal on 100th birthday

2026-06-14T19:53:37+01:00

A resident at a care home in Sutton Coldfield has received a medal for her service in the second world war – on the day she celebrated her 100th birthday.

Green Loops set to revolutionise solar panel recycling and tackle global clean energy waste crisis

2026-06-14T19:45:30+01:00

A groundbreaking innovation developed at the University of Wolverhampton could transform how the world deals with the rapidly growing mountain of end-of-life solar panels, following high-profile recognition by the Royal Academy of Engineering.

MP praises social impact investment after visiting £1.6m ‘Old Eight Bells’ transformation

2026-06-14T19:36:36+01:00

The transformation of The Old Eight Bells in Mansfield was given a seal of approval during a recent visit to showcase the power of social impact investment.