HERE's what you need to know in the Black Country and North Worcestershire this evening.

An inquest into the death of popular teacher Peter Rippington has been suspended, pending the conclusion of a criminal trial.

The Alvechurch Middle School teacher, described as a "true legend", died in a coach crash carrying children and teachers from the school on their return from a skiing trip to the Alps in 2012.

The full story can be read here.

The Dudley News reports a Dudley car mechanic who joined the Islamic State has posted chilling images of his bomb-making factory in Syria online.

Hamayun Tariq, who was born and bred in the town, claims to be an explosives expert and sniper and has shared four images on Twitter of a room where he says he makes devices known as IEDs.

The story is available here.

The Droitwich Advertiser reports stalwart Droitwich Spa town and district councillor Pete Pinfield is stepping down at the upcoming election, after 34 years of service to the town.

The Labour councillor has chosen to step down ahead of next month’s elections, to concentrate on his work for the independent health watchdog Healthwatch Worcestershire.

For the full story click here.

Meanwhile, bird lovers have been admiring a pair of peregrine falcons who appear to have set up home at the Weavers Wharf retail park.

The birds, who pair for life, have been making quite a fuss for a few weeks, to the delight of bird watchers in Kidderminster.

The full story is available here.