A fire broke out just after midnight on Thursday at a factory in Willenhall. Over 50 firefighters with specialist equipment were mobilised to tackle the blaze, leading to multiple road closures and warnings to residents to keep doors and windows closed.

More excess deaths are being recorded in the Midlands compared to other areas of England. Pressure on the NHS is said to be a likely factor. In the week ending December 30th, the West Midlands saw a 23.6% spike in death - the third highest rate in England.

Three restaurants in Birmingham have been named amongst the UK's best according to Harden's 2023 top 100 guide. 30,000 reports from 3000 diners determined the outcome. Adam's in Waterloo Street, Opheem and The Wilderness were included in the list.