New research has today revealed the shocking numbers of private renters in the Midlands suffering at the hands of a rogue landlord, with approximately 120,000 experiencing an act by their landlord that could have resulted in legal action. The survey by Shelter and YouGov revealed alarming reports from renters including landlords threatening, harassing or assaulting them, cutting off utilities, not carrying out gas safety checks, and entering their homes without permission.

Faith group representatives in Birmingham are set to come together for the launch of the city’s new Faith Network. The Faith Network, a new forum for engagement between Birmingham City Council and faith groups and faith-led activity in the city, will be launched in the Banqueting Suite at the Council House, in Victoria Square, on Tuesday, September 1, from 6pm to 8.30pm. The event is open to all.

Wolverhampton residents are being reminded to ensure they don’t miss out on the opportunity to vote. All households should have received a form asking people to check whether the information that appears on the electoral register for those living at the address is correct. The aim of the form is to ensure that the electoral register is up to date and to identify any residents who are not registered so that they can be encouraged to do so.

With the recent video footage showing several police officers pinning and arresting a one-legged Black man on a busy street in San Francisco, the question posed, internationally, is: ‘What does it take for people of colour to NOT face the fear of open, brutal attacks by American law-enforcers?’ and ‘Just how many attacks of this nature is taking place – possibly on a daily basis?’  

One in every eight of the Capital's dwellers (12.4 per cent) is jealous of Harry Potter's broomstick as a mode of transport, followed by President Barack Obama's Air Force One jet (10.6 per cent) and James Bond's speed boat (8.3 per cent). Beating the traffic and staying above ground – sometimes quite a way above ground – is what Londoners yearn for from their daily commute.

The Golden Lion Tamarin twins need names – can you help? Born on 27 February to proud mum and dad Cleo and Pablo, the six month old twins urgently need naming. If you’d like to suggest a name – which will go to a public vote – then leave it at reception when you visit Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park or post it on their Facebook page over the bank holiday. You could win a family entry ticket.