A former Staffordshire police officer has admitted improperly using his police powers after making contact with a vulnerable witness he met through his duties. Howard Bradley pleaded guilty at Stoke-on-Trent Court and will be sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in November.

Martin Pitchford · 2 September 2026

Stoke City finally picked up their first Championship win of the season as Ethan Galbraith's first-half strike secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Norwich City at the bet365 Stadium.

Martin Pitchford · 2 September 2026

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council has taken the first step towards potentially challenging the Government's controversial decision to abolish the borough council and merge it with Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Moorlands.

Martin Pitchford · 1 September 2026

The Old Post Office in Burslem has confirmed the tragic death of doorman Liam Smith, saying the pub's team has been left "devastated" and sending its thoughts to his family and loved ones.

Staffordshire Police are urgently appealing for help to find 38-year-old Kayleigh from Clayton, Newcastle-under-Lyme, who was last seen on August 17 and is known to frequent Stoke-on-Trent.

Martin Pitchford · 31 August 2026

A total of 73 empty laughing gas canisters have been cleared from the entrance to a Stoke-on-Trent park, prompting a stark warning from community group Impact Stoke about local youths using the dangerous gas and leaving the canisters where children play.

Martin Pitchford · 31 August 2026

A homeless camp has reportedly appeared behind the Aldi car park in Newcastle-under-Lyme, close to Morrisons, with the borough council now made aware of the situation.

Martin Pitchford · 31 August 2026

A Newcastle man has been praised after clearing broken glass and plastic left on Hoon Avenue following the crash involving a red BMW.

Martin Pitchford · 30 August 2026

A 29-year-old man has died following an incident at The Old Post Office in Burslem, with police and ambulance crews attending the scene.

Martin Pitchford · 30 August 2026

The Big Feast festival in Stoke-on-Trent city centre has been cancelled today because of the weather, with one event at The Potteries Centre still going ahead.

Martin Pitchford · 29 August 2026

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is continuing to push ahead with improvements in Kidsgrove, with work taking place across the town as part of the wider Kidsgrove Town Deal.

Martin Pitchford · 29 August 2026

Stoke-on-Trent City Council is moving its Adult and Community Learning service to a new base in the city, with the council saying the move will make it easier for residents to access education, careers advice and support into employment.

Martin Pitchford · 29 August 2026

Police have launched an arson investigation after a scrubland fire behind Tawney Crescent in Meir threatened to spread towards nearby homes.

Martin Pitchford · 28 August 2026

Dramatic photographs captured Thursday night's spectacular thunderstorm over Stoke-on-Trent, as frequent lightning lit up the sky across the city. But with more unsettled weather and a further risk of thunder forecast, last night's display may not be the last.

Martin Pitchford · 28 August 2026

Firefighters remained overnight at an unsafe building on Keelings Road, Northwood, following a fire, with inspection work expected today.

Martin Pitchford · 28 August 2026