Durham OnAir

A Barnard Castle sexual abuse survivor is planning to appeal the length of the sickening short sentence the paedophile who ruined three lives received.

Gemma Chappell, the great-aunt of murdered County Durham toddler Maya Chappell, spoke out after Jamie Varley was handed a whole life order for the horrific murder of Preston Davey.

The government has said it will take "swift and meaningful" action on any NHS Trust where "standards fall short" but has failed to address whether it will call a public enquiry into the breast cancer scandal in County Durham and Darlington.

A sex offender was told he will be jailed, given his record, after he admitted trying to incite a boy to take part in sexual activity.

Plans to build 18 homes and a supported living unit in Bishop Auckland have been criticised for the poor design and negative impact on the surrounding area.

WL Distillery has announced the launch of Graduation Gin, an elegant small-batch gin created to honour graduates as they celebrate their achievements and embark on the next stage of their journey.

Dr Marjorie “Mo” Mowlam, one of the most influential figures in modern British politics, has been honoured with a blue plaque at her former college, celebrating both her time at Durham University and her remarkable contribution to peace and public service.

Former England captain and 2003 Rugby World Cup-winner Lewis Moody and a team of rugby legends have set off on an epic 500-mile charity cycling challenge to raise funds for motor neuron disease research.

The nation has spoken and crowned the Peacock Britain’s Favourite Butterfly in a landmark poll. Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation has today revealed that the colourful Peacock has beaten off fierce competition from a colourful cast of species to take the top spot as Britain’s Favourite Butterfly.

The BBC has been told that the transport secretary is among those advising Starmer to set out a timetable.

Discussion about the prime minister's future ramps up after Makerfield by-election.

Police say a man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder has been bailed.

Temperatures are expected to peak in the mid-30s Celsius on Monday and Tuesday with impacts on health and a risk of disruption to travel.

Newcastle United face a challenging start to their upcoming Premier League season.

Analysis of Sunderland's 2026/27 Premier League fixture list and the games that will be moved because of Europa League commitments

Newcastle United's 2026/27 Premier League fixture list has been set

Sunderland's 2026/27 Premier League fixture list has been confirmed