New Driving Laws Launch in June in Scotland and E-scooter Trials Revamped
Key details: Four new driving laws came into effect on June 1, 2024, in Scotland. Among these laws is the enforcement of Low Emission Zones (LEZ) in Aberdeen, Dundee, and Edinburgh, aimed at reducing air pollution from petrol and diesel vehicles. LEZ areas will be monitored 24/7 using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to detect non-compliant vehicles. Stationary vehicles are exempt from LEZ restrictions, and violations will be penalized through Penalty Charge Notices.
Aberdeen and Edinburgh are enforcing their LEZs as of June 1, following the example set by Glasgow and Dundee. In Dundee, residents like Rebecca Wade have noted positive changes, such as reduced pollution through increased use of hybrid and electric buses and cars.
In related news, the Department for Transport (DfT) has granted local authorities more control over e-scooter trial configurations. These authorities can now request changes to trial geography and fleet sizes, with requests to be submitted to the DfT by April 5 and coming into effect from June 1.
Newcastle United Faces Transfer Competition for Tosin Adarabioyo
Key details: Newcastle United were close to signing defender Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer but now face competition from Chelsea. Chelsea hopes to secure Adarabioyo by offering higher wages and the opportunity for European football, advantages Newcastle cannot currently match. Meanwhile, Newcastle continues to pursue other targets like Lloyd Kelly.
Penguin Ring Bearers Surprise at Wedding in Chester
Key details: Joe Keilty surprised his bride, Kerri Parry, with penguin ring bearers at their wedding on May 5 in Chester, Cheshire. Kerri, a penguin enthusiast, was delighted to see the penguins carrying the wedding rings. The couple, who got engaged in front of the Rockefeller Centre in New York, spent around £2,000 to hire the penguins from Amazing Animals.
Carjacking Incident in Erdington Leads to Arrests
Key details: Three teenage boys were arrested following a carjacking in Erdington, Birmingham, on June 1. The suspects threatened a man and stole his car keys before crashing the vehicle. The police intercepted and arrested the teens on suspicion of robbery.
Tanker Drivers to Strike in June Over Pay Dispute
Key details: Tanker drivers employed by Oxalis will strike on June 6-8 and 13-15 due to a pay dispute. The strikes, organized by Unite, are expected to disrupt fuel deliveries in the North West and Scottish Borders. Unite criticizes Oxalis for offering unequal pay compared to other regions. The company claims it proposed a 19% pay increase over two years and maintains that any further raise would threaten operational viability.
AC/DC Frontman Narrates Children's Book for Hospital
Key details: Brian Johnson of AC/DC has narrated a children's book called "Bobby's Big Day Out" for the Great North Children's Hospital. The story, part of the Sensational Thinking Project, is intended to help children with sensory differences prepare for hospital visits. The initiative aims to make hospital experiences less daunting for young patients.
Tragic Crash on A1 in Northumberland Results in Two Fatalities
Key details: A two-vehicle collision on the A1 near Haggerston, Northumberland, claimed the lives of a 68-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman on May 31. The Citroen C3 Picasso collided with a VW Transport, leading to their deaths. Police are investigating the incident and seeking witnesses.
Funeral for Solihull D-Day Veteran Draws Hundreds
Key details: Hundreds attended the funeral of Albert Price, a 98-year-old D-Day veteran from Solihull, on May 31. Price, who was among the first to land on Gold Beach in Normandy, had his service at Robin Hood Crematorium. Military Lions, an Aston Villa supporters group, helped gather attendees to honor the war hero.