HERE’S a round up of stories making headlines in our area, the Black Country and North Worcestershire.

Around 70 firefighters tackled a blaze at Teknor Apex, in Oldbury.

Staff were evacuated from the site, and smoke could be seen for miles.

Our live blog of the incident, which included video of the fire, is available here.

THERE was a huge surprise for Redditch residents when celebrity Eddie Izzard turned up in the town centre.

The comedian, actor and writer, was out on the campaign trail with Redditch’s Labour's Parliamentary candidate Rebecca Blake.

Eddie also found time to meet local campaigners and a number of bemused shoppers.

The full story is here.

Police have released images of four young men after two brothers were attacked outside a Sedgley pub as they went to the aid of a woman.

A trio of suspects are being sought after the attack on a 19-year-old as he waited on Ettymore Road for a lift home, with his brother and girlfriend.

The full story is available here.

Meanwhile the Stourbridge News reports the popular fashion outlet Scary Canary is closing its doors in the town this weekend, due to the health of its co-owner.

Steve Pilcher and his wife Stacey are shutting the clothing side of their High Street business due to Steve’s ongoing battle against cancer.

The story can be read here.