Newsroom

Highways crews are on standby as an Amber weather alert is issued, with temperatures expected to reach 34C.

Four gritters will be ready across the county to spread granite dust on roads affected by heat, helping to stabilise softened road surfaces.

Drivers are being advised to plan ahead, carry water and allow extra time for journeys during the hot weather.

• People invited to make most of rare partial solar eclipse visible on Wednesday 12 August at 7pm

• Advice to not look at eclipse directly and use certified eclipse glasses or indirect viewing methods

• Keele University hosting viewing event free of charge

• More than 100 unsafe squidgy toys seized by Trading Standards

• Fakes of the popular toys can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, nausea and headaches

• The toys can also cause injuries if heated

• New home sought for historic locomotive and coach carriage

• Must be moved from current home at the National Brewery Centre in Burton-upon-Trent due to lack of facilities to take care of them

• County council considering transfer of ownership to another nationally accredited museum in Staffordshire

• Children and young people aged 5-15 have free bus travel throughout August

• Summer Bus Fare Offer part of Government’s Great British Summer Savings programme

• Aim to make it easier for children and families to access days out and attractions over summer holidays

• Market giving out free school uniforms returns to Cannock between Tuesday 18 and Friday 21 August

• Uniforms available for children attending Cannock Chase schools

• Scheme has already saved families £120,000