Here are the 5 latest articles from the BBC Coventry & Warwickshire
1. Coventry Very Light Rail track to be installed near station
Summary: Coventry is set to take a significant step in its transport evolution with the installation of a new 800-meter twin-track for the innovative “Very Light Rail” (VLR) system. This project, spearheaded by local leaders including Councillor Jim O’Boyle, aims to demonstrate a more affordable and flexible alternative to traditional tram networks. The new track will be situated between Coventry Railway Station and Coventry University, serving as a critical testing ground for these battery-powered vehicles. Unlike traditional heavy rail, VLR tracks are designed to be laid just 30cm deep, which significantly reduces the need to divert expensive underground utilities—often the most prohibitive cost in urban transit projects. This innovation is expected to provide a blueprint for other medium-sized cities seeking sustainable, low-carbon transit solutions. The project emphasizes Coventry’s history as a hub for transport manufacturing while looking toward a greener future, promising high-frequency travel with much lower infrastructure investment.
Full Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c2e27vj8l82o
2. Medical student ‘first responders’ scheme launches in Coventry
Summary: A pioneering Community First Responder (CFR) scheme has officially launched in Coventry, comprised entirely of 29 medical students from the University of Warwick. These volunteers have undergone rigorous training by the West Midlands Ambulance Service to provide life-saving care in the critical minutes before a professional ambulance crew arrives. The students will respond to category one and two emergencies, such as cardiac arrests or severe breathing difficulties, within the city. This initiative serves a dual purpose: it provides vital, immediate support to a stretched NHS while offering future doctors invaluable hands-on clinical experience in high-pressure emergency settings. Organizers emphasize that having trained responders nearby can significantly increase survival rates for time-sensitive medical conditions. The students balance their demanding academic commitments with being “on-call,” demonstrating a profound commitment to the local community. This scheme is one of the first in the UK to utilize a dedicated student body for emergency response.
Full Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c36p2ze99pno
3. Former engineer celebrates 100th birthday in Warwick
Summary: John Carey, a former engineer living in Warwick, has reached a remarkable milestone by celebrating his 100th birthday. Born in 1924, Mr. Carey has lived through a century of immense technological and social change, and he credits his longevity and happiness primarily to the support of a “loving family.” His career was spent in the engineering sector, contributing to the industrial heritage of the West Midlands for several decades. His centenary was marked by a gathering of friends and family, where he shared stories of his career and his experiences during and after the Second World War. His perspective serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of community and personal connections in an increasingly digital and fast-paced age. Local representatives noted that Mr. Carey’s life represents the resilience of his generation. Despite reaching 100, he remains engaged with his local community, enjoying the simple pleasures of family life and local surroundings.
Full Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr4p4ze9enyo
4. West Midlands Police officer to face court over rape charges
Summary: A West Midlands Police officer is scheduled to appear at Warwick Crown Court next week following serious allegations of sexual misconduct. Sergeant Karl Mumby is facing charges of rape, stemming from an investigation into incidents that reportedly occurred while he was off-duty. The force has confirmed that the officer has been formally suspended from his duties pending the outcome of these legal proceedings. This development has sparked significant public interest and concern regarding the conduct of serving officers in the region. West Midlands Police have emphasized their commitment to transparency and maintaining high standards of integrity, noting that such charges are handled with extreme seriousness. The case is part of a broader national conversation regarding police accountability and the vetting processes for those in positions of authority. The upcoming court hearing will provide the full details of the allegations as the legal process moves toward a resolution to determine the veracity of the claims.
Full Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2p4ze98nqo
5. Moose the dog finds home after 1,200 days at Kenilworth trust
Summary: In a heartwarming update from the Dogs Trust Kenilworth, a long-term resident named Moose has finally found his “forever home” after spending more than 1,200 days at the shelter. The crossbreed had become a firm favorite among the staff but had struggled to find the perfect match for over three years. Just in time for the Christmas season, a local family has adopted him, providing the stable and loving environment he needs. Shelter staff expressed a mixture of joy and sadness at his departure, having formed a deep bond with the dog over his lengthy stay. Moose’s story highlights the challenges faced by “overlooked” rescue dogs who may require specific living conditions or extra patience from potential owners. His successful rehoming is seen as a major victory for the charity’s dedicated team. The shelter hopes Moose’s success story will encourage more people to consider adopting other long-term residents who are still waiting.
Full Story: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c46p4ze9gnpo
Here are the 5 latest articles from the Coventry Telegraph (CoventryLive) RSS feed.
1. Universal Credit claimant ‘never questioned’ how he got stolen £26k Toyota so cheap
Summary:
Benjamin Prince, a Universal Credit claimant, was found in possession of a stolen Toyota C-HR worth approximately £26,000. During legal proceedings, Prince claimed he had purchased the vehicle for a mere £2,000 from an acquaintance in a pub and insisted he had no knowledge of its criminal origins. However, prosecutors argued that the massive price discrepancy—roughly 8% of the car’s actual market value—meant the defendant “must have had at least some awareness” that the vehicle was stolen. The car had originally been taken during a residential burglary in Solihull. The court examined the defendant’s financial status, questioning the logic of a person on benefits making such a purchase without suspicion. This case highlights the ongoing issues with vehicle theft in the West Midlands and the legal consequences for those handling stolen goods. The judge noted that “too-good-to-be-true” deals often serve as a red flag for organized motor crime.
Full Story: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/universal-credit-claimant-never-questioned-33045330
2. Mum and baby mauled by trio of Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Summary:
A terrifying incident in Coventry left a mother and her infant child with significant injuries after they were attacked by three Staffordshire Bull Terriers. The victim recounted the harrowing experience, stating the mauling felt like it lasted “forever” as she struggled to shield her baby from the aggressive animals. The dogs were reportedly roaming unsecured in a residential area when the unprovoked attack occurred. Following the incident, emergency services were called to the scene, and the three dogs were seized and subsequently destroyed due to the severe threat they posed to public safety. The owner of the dogs has since been sentenced in court for failing to keep the animals under proper control. This case has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement of the Dangerous Dogs Act and more rigorous owner accountability. The mother has been praised for her bravery, though both victims face a long recovery from the physical and emotional trauma.
Full Story: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/mum-baby-mauled-trio-staffordshire-33045231
3. Sick Coventry rapist jailed over ‘abhorrent crimes on young child’
Summary:
A man from Coventry has been sentenced to a significant prison term for “abhorrent” sexual crimes committed against a young child. The abuse, which the court heard began in the late 1990s, remained hidden for decades until the victim felt able to come forward and report the historical incidents to the police. During the trial at Warwick Crown Court, the prosecution detailed the long-term psychological impact the abuse had on the survivor. The judge commended the victim for their immense courage in reliving these traumatic events to ensure justice was served. Police officials noted that this conviction sends a clear message that historical sex crimes will be pursued with the same vigor as contemporary reports. The perpetrator has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life. Local support groups highlighted the case as an example of why it is never too late for survivors of childhood abuse to seek legal recourse and support.
Full Story: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/sick-coventry-rapist-jailed-over-33044917
4. ID cards row at Nuneaton Town Hall as MPs urged to say ‘no’
Summary:
A contentious debate erupted at Nuneaton Town Hall as local councillors took a stand against the government’s proposed mandatory digital ID card scheme. Critics of the plan argued that it represents a significant infringement on civil liberties and poses substantial risks to personal data privacy. A motion was passed during the session urging local Members of Parliament to vote against the legislation, with several councillors describing the move as “draconian.” Concerns were also raised about the “digital divide,” noting that elderly and vulnerable residents who are not tech-savvy could be unfairly excluded from essential public services. Supporters of the scheme, however, maintain that digital IDs are a necessary step toward modernizing the UK’s infrastructure and combating identity theft. The debate reflects a growing national tension over the balance between national security and individual privacy. The council’s formal opposition will now be communicated to central government as part of a wider regional protest.
Full Story: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/local-news/id-cards-row-nuneaton-town-33044062
5. Coventry hospitals hit by ‘unprecedented’ flu crisis
Summary:
University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire are currently grappling with an “unprecedented” surge in flu cases, leading to a declared crisis within the local NHS trust. The H3N2 strain of the virus has been identified as the primary driver behind a sharp increase in hospitalizations, particularly affecting those with underlying health conditions. Reports indicate that A&E wait times have soared, with some patients waiting up to 16 hours for a bed as the facility nears maximum capacity. Hospital bosses have been forced to implement emergency measures, including the cancellation of some elective procedures and the opening of surge wards to manage the influx. Health officials are urgently reminding the public to only attend A&E for life-threatening emergencies and are pleading with residents to take up the offer of free flu vaccines. This winter spike is being described as one of the most difficult periods for the hospital since the height of the pandemic, placing immense strain on frontline medical staff.
Full Story: https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/number-hospital-patients-flu-coventry-33043818
References
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/england/coventry_and_warwickshire