Sandwell, West Midlands, England News

Schools hit as swine flu spreads
At least 40 schools in the West Midlands region are affected by the swine flu virus, the BBC understands.

No charges in fraud investigation
Charges will not be brought over a fraud investigation at a West Midlands school and college, the Crown Prosecution Service says.

Colours on display in Cathedral
The colours of a West Midlands army regiment are going on display in Lichfield Cathedral.

New charge over injured Pc
A fourth man is charged with wounding after a police officer was injured in the West Midlands.

'Car bomb man' was kidnap victim
West Midlands Police say a man found inside a car in Birmingham city centre with his hands tied and cannisters attached to his body had been kidnapped.

Child seriously hurt in collision
A child suffers serious head and leg injuries in a collision with a car in the West Midlands.

Man arrested following house fire
A man is arrested on suspicion of arson following a West Midlands fire in which another man was critically burnt.

Crews called to lightning strikes
Fire crews were called out to two lightning strikes after a storm struck part of the West Midlands.

Man charged with rape and assault
A 22-year-old man charged with rape and sexual assault, West Midlands Police say.

Paramedic critical after accident
A paramedic is in a critical condition after an ambulance collided with a van in the West Midlands.