Stourbridge blaze under control as residents await return-home guidance amid UK fire surge
A major Stourbridge grass-and-woodland fire that destroyed 19 homes is now under control, with officials saying returns will be handled street by street and some residents may be allowed back this evening. Across the UK, 43 new wildfires have been reported in 24 hours, prompting military support in parts of Wales and continued firefighting in the West Midlands, Hampshire and Shropshire. Crowdfunding has raised over £13,000 for affected residents, while authorities warn against scams and urge donations through official channels; residents are advised not to return until cleared, and airspace access is being controlled as crews damp hotspots and work to extinguish remaining flames.