Police officer fights for life as Slough pair arrested on suspicion of attempted murder

A police officer is fighting for his life in hospital after being seriously injured in a collision while on duty in Buckinghamshire. Two men have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following the incident in Stoke Poges - to the west of London - on Thursday evening.

The men, aged 28 and 38 and both from Slough, were also arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. A third man, 43, also from Slough, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and perverting the course of justice.

Thames Valley Police said on Saturday morning that the officer remained in a life-threatening condition in hospital. The incident happened at about 10.20pm on Thursday on the B416 Bells Hill, between Decies Way and Rogers Lane.

Allen Horn, a 56-year-old postman who lives in the area, said: "The neighbours heard a car in a cul-de-sac race around and come back, but nobody saw anything as far as I know. I came out in the morning and the road is closed."

Jennifer Tulloch, 79, who also lives nearby, said: "I only saw blue flashing lights that evening. It's horrible, I think he's seriously injured. He's not local, I don't think. I think he was on duty. We would have heard by now if he was local."

Matthew Barber, police and crime commissioner for Thames Valley, said: "My thoughts are with the officer, his family and his colleagues who will also be deeply affected. It is another stark reminder of the dangers that our police and emergency service colleagues face on a daily basis. Thames Valley Police is supporting the officer's family at this difficult time."

'This has shaken our wider community'

David Moore, Conservative councillor for Farnhams and Stoke Poges, said: "I am deeply shocked and saddened to learn that one of our brave police officers is fighting for his life following this horrific incident. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his loved ones at this incredibly difficult time, and I wish him a full and swift recovery.

"This has shaken Stoke Poges and our wider community across south Bucks. Residents and councillors alike are appalled by this incident. I urge anyone with information to come forward and support Thames Valley Police's investigation so that justice can be served."

Anybody with any information is asked to contact Thames Valley Police, either online or by calling 101, quoting reference 43250252869.

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Jimmy Carr's life off-screen from son's unique name to longterm partner

Jimmy Carr launched his comedy career in 1997 and has gone on to become a familiar face on our telly.

The 52 year old star is renowned for hosting programmes such as 8 Out of 10 Cats and The Big Fat Quiz of the Year, with his dry delivery of one-liners winning over TV audiences.

Jimmy's latest television project sees him feature on Alison Hammond's Big Weekend, where the duo spend 48 hours together. This one-off show will broadcast on Friday, 23 May, offering viewers a rare glimpse into Jimmy's private life.

Let's delve into the comedian's life away from the camera, including details about his partner....

Jimmy Carr is a TV presenter and comedian (Image: Getty)

Jimmy's early years

Born James Anthony Patrick Carr in Hounslow, London, Jimmy grew up with two brothers, reports Surrey Live.

Most of his childhood was spent in Farnham Common, Buckinghamshire. Diagnosed with dyslexia at an early age, Jimmy struggled with reading and writing until he was about ten years old.

He later pursued social science and

political science at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, graduating with first-class honours.

This led to a marketing role at Shell for Jimmy, but he took voluntary redundancy in 2000. Shortly after, he performed his first stand-up gig.

In 2001, Jimmy Carr faced a personal tragedy when his mother Nora passed away from pancreatitis at the age of 57. This event led to a strained relationship with his father; Jimmy disclosed that he hadn't spoken to his dad since 2000 and only saw him once at an autograph signing after a performance in 2015, where they didn't exchange words.

Who is Jimmy's partner?

Jimmy Carr has been in a long-standing relationship with Karoline Copping, a former commissioning editor for Channel 5.

Karoline has had a hand in two of Jimmy's works; she's credited on Jimmy Carr Live and Jimmy Carr: In Concert. The pair first crossed paths in 2001 during a television interview at auditions and quickly began their romance.

Jimmy with partner Karoline Copping (Image: Getty)

Despite being together for over twenty years, Jimmy and Karoline have not walked down the aisle. The comedian has expressed that marriage isn't on the cards for him right now.

In a candid chat with The Guardian, Jimmy shared: "People ask why we're not married, but it's just not something that I'd like to talk about. Karoline is a wonderful girl, and it upsets her, and I'm not prepared to do it."

Do Jimmy and Karoline have children?

The couple celebrated the arrival of their first child, a son, in 2019. Jimmy later revealed his son's distinctive name as Rockefeller.

The name Rockefeller was chosen as a nod to the American magnate John D. Rockefeller, coupled with a tribute to Chris Rock, whom Jimmy regards as "the greatest ever comedian", as he mentioned in an interview.

Discussing the potential impact of fatherhood on his comedic style with Radio Times, Jimmy quipped: "It could be a bit of a gear shift, because of the kind of comedy I do. But so far, I'm still telling the same jokes, I've got the same sense of humour. We'll see because I'm sure I'm going to be writing a lot of material about him. In fact, I think he might be tax-deductible."

Alison Hammond's Big Weekend airs at 8.30pm on BBC One on Friday, 23 May

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Teens, 18, stabbed during 'fight on West London bus'

Two 18-year-olds have been rushed to hospital with stab wounds after an alleged fight on a bus in Uxbridge in the early hours of yesterday morning (Wednesday, May 21). One of them has been left with life-changing injuries.

Police were called to reports of a stabbing at the Uxbridge Road and Harlington Road junction after an alleged bus fight at around 12am.

Both were arrested at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH). Police are appealing to the public to come forward if they have information on the incident.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Service said: “Police were called at 12:00hrs on Wednesday, 21 May following reports of a stabbing in Uxbridge. Officers attended the scene at the Uxbridge Road and Harlington Road junction where two men had allegedly been in a fight on a bus.

“Both men, aged 18, suffered stab wound injuries in the incident, with one considered to be life-changing. Neither were life-threatening. They were both arrested at the scene on suspicion of GBH. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Police are appealing for anyone who may have been on the Route 427 bus on Uxbridge Road or have any dashcam footage. Anyone with information should call 101 with the reference 4287/21May. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

Got a story? Please get in touch at katherine.gray@reachplc.com

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Turkey travel warning issued to Brits after 'extreme' holiday activity deaths

The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a new travel update for Brits jetting off to Turkey. Travellers are being advised to stay alert following recent tragic incidents involving British citizens.

The FCDO, which provides Brits with travel advice for around 226 international destinations, now includes an advisory on paragliding: "Paragliding is an extreme sport and carries the risk of serious injury or death."

Concerned for nationals' safety, the FCDO warns: "British nationals have died or been seriously injured whilst paragliding in Turkey. Ensure you receive full instructions and training before your activity. If you are near where paragliding activities take place, be aware that the landing area may be in a public area. Maintain a reasonable distance from potential landing zones for your personal safety."

The activity may seem tourist-friendly but carries substantial risks (Image: undefined via Getty Images)

As Turkey remains a beloved holiday spot for Brits, the standing advice stresses the importance of purchasing alcohol responsibly—only from legitimate retailers and establishments—and avoiding unlicensed bars or shops. Watch out for intact bottle seals and correct labels to steer clear of poor-quality drinks, advises the Liverpool Echo.

The FCDO stressed the urgency of seeking immediate medical care if you experience sickness after consuming alcoholic drinks.

Only buy drinks from licenced shops and bars (Image: undefined via Getty Images)

UK passport holders planning a trip to Turkey have been issued important reminders, including ensuring that their travel document remains valid for at least 150 days from the day they enter and has at least one blank page. British tourists can enjoy visa-free visits to Turkey for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, whether they're travelling for business or pleasure.

The guidance on Gov.uk emphasises: "If entering at a land border, make sure officials stamp and date your passport at the border crossing. Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements."

It also warns: "Renew your passport if you need to. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen."

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West London bridge over Thames to shut for repairs as timber panels holding it together are rotting

Drivers are being urged to plan ahead and avoid Albert Bridge next week as it closes for essential maintenance.

The iconic West London river crossing will be closed to vehicles in both directions from 7am, Tuesday, May 27, to 6am, Monday, June 2.

A diversion will be in place for motorists via Chelsea Bridge or Battersea Bridge, though traffic is expected to be heavier than normal. Kensington and Chelsea Council, which manages the bridge, said the works are taking place during summer half term to minimise the impact on drivers.

During the six-day closure council engineers are expected to repair the bridge deck, street lighting and expansion joints. These allow the bridge to expand and contract with temperature changes and adjust to the weight of vehicles and wind.

Engineers will replace around 10pc of the entire decking (Image: RBKC)

Kensington and Chelsea Council said works will also take place to the pavements, but this will be done in stages to allow pedestrian access across the bridge at all times. Cyclists are being urged to dismount when crossing.

The bridge deck is made up of 715 individual timber panels fixed to the timber sections below, according to the council. Around 10per cent of the entire deck is said to be rotting and will be replaced during the closure.

The panels deteriorate with the weather and traffic which can affect the surface of the carriageway and allow water to seep into the timber sections below. Council workers will also replace the rubber between expansion joints. The rubber, which is placed between the joints to prevent water reaching the bearing beneath the bridge, has faded and needs replacing.

Cllr Johnny Thalassites, Lead Member for Environment and Planning, said: "Keeping an iconic listed bridge operational does take regular maintenance. We have to be responsible stewards of Albert Bridge which is both a landmark of the London skyline and a vital crossing point.

"We know this is a short-term inconvenience to drivers so we're grateful to everyone for being patient. Without these works, we risk harm to the bridge so it's not optional. If we want to keep the bridge open, we have to look after it, now and in the future."

In January 2024, the council introduced a three-tonne weight limit on the bridge for goods vehicles. Between January 11, 2024, when enforcement began, and April 20, 2025, the council issued 37,954 penalty charge notices for drivers breaching the weight restriction.

The bridge will shut for six days over the school summer half term break (Image: RBKC)

The council said they fine motorists based on their vehicle's official revenue weight, also known as the maximum gross weight, which is available on the DVLA's website.

In June last year, The Local Democracy Reporting Service found Kensington and Chelsea Council made just over £630,000 fining drivers breaking the three-tonne weight restriction.

From January to May 27, 2024, drivers received 11,766 fines worth £130. It also found more than half - 68 per cent - of motorists had their fine reduced to £65 because they paid within the 14-day window.

Got a story? Email adrian.zorzut@reachplc.com

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West London Tory councillor steps down after becoming a dad and leaving the city

Hammersmith and Fulham Conservative councillor and Opposition Deputy Leader Andrew Dinsmore has stepped down due to leaving the capital after becoming a father.

Mr Dinsmore, who was also a General Election candidate last year in Hammersmith and Chiswick, thanked his Conservative colleagues "who have been a fantastic support to me throughout my time as a councillor".

A commercial barrister by trade, Mr Dinsmore was elected as a Fulham Town councillor in 2022.

During his time on the local authority he has sat on the Social Inclusion and Community Safety Policy and Accountability Committee and served as the Opposition Deputy Leader.

Mr Dinsmore told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): "Following my recently becoming a father, my wife and I moved out of London to be closer to family support. As a result, I felt that I was unable to perform my duties as a councillor to the standard that residents deserve."

Mr Dinsmore added he is "delighted to hand the baton" to the Tory candidate for his seat, Liam Downer-Sanderson, who he said would be an "excellent councillor for Fulham Town".

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my Conservative colleagues in Hammersmith and Fulham who have been a fantastic support to me throughout my time as a councillor," he said. "I have no doubt that they will take over administration of the council next year and I shall do all that I can to support them in doing so."

Asked about his proudest achievements since being elected, Mr Dinsmore pointed to examples including his running of a petition to ban the sale of machetes online which drew 140,000 signatures and representing Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick in a dispute with the Sentencing Council.

He also mentioned his selection as the Conservative candidate for Hammersmith and Chiswick at last year's General Election, when he came a distant second to Labour's Andy Slaughter.

Mr Dinsmore's end of term is listed on Hammersmith and Fulham Council's website as May 15. A date is yet to be set for a by-election, though is expected to be announced for the end of June or early July.

Cllr Victoria Brocklebank-Fowler, also a Conservative, is the other Fulham Town representative.

The by-election for Mr Dinsmore's seat will be the third in the borough this year.

Two former Labour councillors, Emma Apthorp and Ben Coleman, the latter being MP for Chelsea and Fulham, stood down from their roles with the local authority in January. Both seats were retained by Labour candidates at the by-elections the following month.

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London's long lost ancient river older than the city itself that you can still spot signs of

Beneath the bustling streets of the City of London once flowed a river called the Walbrook. It’s now buried about 30 feet below ground level, and it’s part of a network of ‘lost rivers’ that defined Roman London.

The Walbrook used to separate two hills - Cornhill and Ludgate - which helped shape how the Romans built the city. It provided a vital source of freshwater and powered industries such as tanning, glassmaking and pottery production.

But by the second century, the river began silting up, and was slowly covered over as the city grew. But even though it’s hidden today, signs of it still exist in street names, buildings, and ruins.

READ MORE: London's oldest church with 1,300-year-old archway where headless Tower of London victims were buried

The riverside walk runs along Walbrook Wharf and is closed to pedestrians when waste is being transferred onto barges. (Image: MyLondon)

I decided to walk the path where the Walbrook once flowed, to see what traces I could find. I started at Walbrook Wharf, where the river would have once joined the Thames.

Today, the wharf is an industrial site - a waste transfer station that processes up to 50,000 tonnes of rubbish a year from central London. Despite the wharf’s gritty present-day purpose, it reflects a long history of riverside industry and trade.

From there, I walked toward Cannon Street, following the river’s old path. Underneath the train station, the remains of a large Roman house were found - the concrete was so strong that Victorian builders couldn’t break through it.

The Walbrook building incorporates trading floors and office accommodation over ten floors and around two atria. (Image: MyLondon)

While I was at Cannon Street, it suddenly started to rain, even though it was a clear sunny day. It felt like a strange reminder that the river is still there, hidden below.

Across the road is the Walbrook Building, named after the river, and it marks the start of the Walbrook ward in the City of London. Nearby, you can also find a piece of art called Forgotten Streams.

The sculpture, by Cristina Iglesias, shows the path of the old river using bronze and stone. An inscription on the piece of art reads: “The artist has taken her inspiration from the ancient Walbrook river which flowed through this site for hundreds of years. A watercourse during the Roman period, the Walbrook was slowly buried over the ensuing centuries.”

There's even a sculpture honouring the long lost river (Image: MyLondon)

Next, I headed to Bank and stopped at 1 Poultry. In the 1950s, archaeologists found a Roman temple underneath this building, built around 250 AD and used by merchants and soldiers who likely relied on the river.

This part of the Walbrook was one of the most functional, carrying water through the Roman city. At the Bank of England, there was even an aqueduct to help the river flow through the Roman wall.

Just behind the Bank, architect John Soane built a small building based on the Roman Temple of Vesta. Decorative details around it - waves, shells and rivulets - seem to whisper the presence of the river below.

It started raining really hard while I was on my adventure (Image: MyLondon)

My final stop was Throgmorton Avenue: now a quiet street, but once a riverside ditch. Archaeologists have found Roman objects buried here, including dishes, tools used for tanning leather, and even a bear’s skull.

All these finds show how busy life once was around the Walbrook. Even though it’s buried, the river still shapes this part of London.

From ancient temples to modern waste stations, the Walbrook’s story is one of constant change. And if you know where to look, you can still find signs of it all over the City.

To watch more videos and read more stories from our London's Hidden Secrets series, see the topic page. As part of the project we have explored the clues that remain of the Roman road to London, and met the gas lamp lighters who light the city's Victorian lamps by hand every night.

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