The News - Saturday, 28 February 2026

BBC News

Mahmood to press on with immigration reforms despite by-election defeat

The home secretary is to double down on plans for Danish-style restrictions on asylum seekers.

Bill Clinton asked about hot tub photo and testifies he knew 'nothing' of Epstein crimes

The former president told the committee that he would never have flown on Epstein's plane if he "had any inkling of what he was doing".

Boy assaulted by birth parents wins campaign for UK child cruelty register

Tony Hudgell, who lost both legs after his birth parents assaulted him, has fought to protect children.

At least 11 killed after military plane carrying banknotes crashes in Bolivia

The cargo plane crashed while landing in the city of El Alto, reportedly hitting vehicles on a motorway.

Anxious days inside Iran as speculation grows of US strikes

To many, Iran now seems to be hovering in a tense limbo where everything could change suddenly.

Neil Sedaka, singer of Breaking Up Is Hard To Do, dies at 86

A skilled pianist nominated for five Grammy awards, Sedaka wrote hits through the 1950's and 60's.

I Swear director says Baftas 'let down' Tourette's campaigner

Kirk Jones says he initially thought a slur shouted during the ceremony was not broadcast.

Rent tops £1,000 a month in more areas - find out where

The cost of renting privately has surged in the last five years, but tenants may now see a slowdown.

Trump orders government to stop using Anthropic in battle over AI use

The move announced on social media comes after a standoff between Anthropic's boss and the Ministry of Defense.

The strange British phenomenon of the snatched backseat picture

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is the latest in a long line of famous people photographed in the back of a car.

The Papers: 'Starmer on ropes' and 'nightmare for Labour'

The results of the Gorton and Denton by-election and the fallout for Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour party dominate Saturday's papers.

Six things to look out for in tonight's Brit Awards ceremony

Will there be a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne? And will Taylor Swift break her losing streak?

'It feels like my brain is trying to be the class clown' - the reality of Tourette's

After a week of Tourette's in the spotlight, BBC News speaks to people with the condition about what it's like to live with.

These filmmakers know exactly how to get you hooked on bizarre one-minute dramas

The business depends on packing a punch right away because the first five to 10 episodes are free.

Formula 1's new golden age of celebrity may have just begun

As the eighth series of Netflix's hugely popular Drive To Survive is released this weekend, has Formula 1 become one big celebrity playground?

Resident Evil is back - can it redefine the survival horror genre once more?

Director Koshi Nakanishi says balancing action and horror within the game has been a huge challenge.

Starmer vows to fight on after historic Green by-election win

The result - in a seat Labour has held for nearly 100 years - heaps further pressure on the PM's position.

Animal charity reported to police after concerns

It comes after former Drone to Home volunteers raised concerns about the charity with the BBC.

Blind refugee found dead in New York after being released by immigration authorities

Immigration authorities say the Myanmar refugee was dropped at a "warm, safe" location, but New York officials say he was left outside a closed coffee shop.

Inside the £3.25m castle bought by Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr

The property in the Borders is described as one of Scotland’s "most important historic houses".

Henrietta Lacks: Family of woman whose cells were 'stolen' settles second lawsuit

Novartis is the second drug company to settle a lawsuit brought by the family of a woman whose cells have enabled huge advances in science.

Tram derails in Milan, leaving two dead and dozens injured

The crowded tram was travelling in the centre of Milan at rush hour when it appeared to crash into the side of a building.

Reform UK reports by-election 'family voting' concerns to police

It comes after election observers raised concerns about "extremely high" levels of family voting.

What we know after US and Israel attacks on Iran hit compound of supreme leader

Iran has retaliated with a missile barrage towards Israel, while explosions have been heard in Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

US and Israeli strikes on Iran in maps

Israel and the US have launched strikes across Iran, with Iran retaliating with strikes across the region.

Trump's statement on Iran strikes analysed line by line

The BBC's State Department correspondent and Washington correspondent explain how the president is justifying the action and assess the risks ahead.

Inside Iran, panic as strikes hit but for some it's a moment of relief

Iranians talk about what is happening inside the country, despite an almost total internet blackout.

Bowen: A dangerous moment, but US and Israel see opportunity not to be missed

Israel and the US believe Iran's regime is vulnerable, dealing with an economic crisis and the aftermath of protests.

UK planes 'in the sky' in Middle East as part of defensive operation, PM says

Sir Keir Starmer says protections for British bases and personnel have been stepped up to their highest level.

Flights cancelled as travel warnings issued after strikes on Iran

BA, Virgin Atlantic and Wizz Air are among major airlines to overhaul their schedules in light of the attacks.

Polanski and Farage don't agree. But they have more in common than you might think

Despite huge political differences, the Green and Reform leaders have much in common, writes Laura Kuenssberg.

Six things to look out for in tonight's Brit Awards ceremony

Will there be a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne? And will Taylor Swift break her losing streak?

The third man who links Andrew with Jeffrey Epstein

For nearly a decade, David Stern acted as a key conduit between Jeffrey Epstein and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Captured off guard: The art of the snatched backseat car photo

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is the latest in a long line of famous people photographed in the back of a car.

Formula 1's new golden age of celebrity may have just begun

As the eighth series of Netflix's hugely popular Drive To Survive is released this weekend, has Formula 1 become one big star playground?

'It feels like my brain is trying to be the class clown' - the reality of Tourette's

After a week of Tourette's in the spotlight, BBC News speaks to people with the condition about what it's like to live with.

Resident Evil Requiem's director on redefining the survival horror genre

Director Koshi Nakanishi says balancing action and horror within the game has been a huge challenge.

Bill Clinton asked about hot tub photo and testifies he knew 'nothing' of Epstein crimes

The former president told the committee that he would never have flown on Epstein's plane if he "had any inkling of what he was doing".

Mahmood to press on with immigration reforms despite by-election defeat

The home secretary is to double down on plans for Danish-style restrictions on asylum seekers.

Inside the £3.25m castle bought by Celebrity Traitors winner Alan Carr

The property in the Borders is described as one of Scotland’s "most important historic houses".

We quit our 9-5 jobs and are now living the dream in a caravan

The couple have no rent, no bills, plus perks such as free golf membership and cheap bar drinks.

Rent tops £1,000 a month in more areas - find out where

The cost of renting privately has surged in the last five years, but tenants may now see a slowdown.

New £20 Harry Styles tickets axed over tout fears

Ticketmaster says it has cancelled some new tickets for Harry Styles One Night Only Manchester show.

Man appears in court over Churchill statue damage

Caspar San Giorgio, 38, appeared at Westminster Magistrate's Court via video-link earlier.

'I love the look on his face' - The mum who takes her baby on wilderness adventures

Experienced mountaineer Morag Skelton has taken Hamish on skiing expeditions and an island-hopping camping trip.

First writing may be 40,000 years earlier than thought

Scientists believe they have found evidence of written thoughts of Stone Age people on ancient objects.

Dog gives birth to record litter of 17 puppies

Owners of the two-year-old Irish Setter called Marigold say she has recovered well from the births.

Stolen spaniel found by police 160 miles from home

The brown and white spaniel, called Honey, was handed back to her "very happy" owners, police said.

Bournemouth Echo

Council housing rent increase and £68million investment

Councillors have agreed to increase rents for council housing tenants in Bournemouth and Poole by nearly five per cent in 2026/27.

Pub of the Week: Wareham's The Duke of Wellington to return to its glory days

The Duke of Wellington plans to kick-start Wareham’s pub scene and bring fresh ‘new energy’ to back to the area.

Miraculous rise of Cherries from administration to Premier League

Formed in the fall of 1899 as Boscombe FC, the club was essentially made from the ashes of Boscombe St John's Lads Institute football team.

How snooker fever completely gripped Bournemouth for major televised event

In November 1998, Bournemouth caught snooker fever as the prestigious Liverpool Victoria UK Championship arrived at the Bournemouth International Centre.

Minister of State for Rail urges council to reconsider Pokesdown station funding

THE Minister of State for Rail has urged BCP Council to reconsider its decision to withdraw funding for the Pokesdown station project ahead of a final decision on the proposal.

Poole's Lighthouse Arts Centre 'facing the continuing pressure of rising costs'

POOLE’s Lighthouse Arts and Entertainment centre is ‘facing the continuing pressure of rising costs’ warns its chief executive.

Wellbeing event with award winning author coming to Dorset to help prevent burnout

A wellbeing event hosted by award winning author is coming to Dorset with the aim of helping people prevent burn out and learn tools to recharge for the spring season.

In The Dock - Driver banned for nearly two years for failing to provide specimen

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Well-known bakery chain to open unit at petrol station

Planning permission has been granted for a well-known bakery chain to open at a petrol station in Verwood.

Pair thrown from inflatable boat during sea crossing rescue

TWO people were rescued from sea after attempting to travel from Lymington to Yarmouth in a small inflatable boat.

LIVE: Emergency services rush to incident at New Milton beach

Emergency services are currently at the scene of an incident at Hoburne Naish Beach this afternoon.

Tunnel from Sandbanks to Studland proposed in new ambitious bid

A tunnel from Sandbanks to Studland has been proposed by an ambitious individual in the hopes of bypassing delays from the chain ferry.

How businesses are defying the gloom shadowing high streets

POOLE’s businesses are defying the gloom overshadowing Britain’s high streets by banding together against the odds.

'Careless and selfish' driver jailed for 16 months after hitting dog

A MAN from New Milton has been jailed for 16 months after admitting a string of driving offences following a late-night incident in which a dog was killed.

Plans to reduce unlawfully converted flats refused

Plans to reduce nine unlawfully converted flats to six were refused despite being considered acceptable.

Poole police urge people not to leave valuables in view after car thefts

SEVERAL thefts from motor vehicles have been reported in Poole area over past few weeks.

Pair convicted after stealing fish from business

TWO men have been convicted after stealing fish from a business, police have confirmed.

'Oscars of our industry': Bournemouth travel firm named best in the world

A Bournemouth-based travel company has been named Best Lifestyle Franchise in the World, with its founder saying the awards are “the Oscars of our industry”.

Operation Wolf: Police and partners conduct proactive stop checks in Lyndhurst

Hampshire police stopped 35 vehicles in Lyndhurst during Operation Wolf, targeting fly-tipping, waste crime and stolen agricultural machinery transport.

Community cast in Dorset dazzled in sell-out cabaret theatre performance

Local female performers dazzled in sell-out cabaret The Monocle at Pavilion Dance South West, celebrating queer history and community through dance and jazz.

New Forest District Council sets Council Tax rates for 2026/27

New Forest District Council confirms 2.99% Council Tax rise for 2026/27. Band D set at £211.92; most of bill goes to Hampshire County Council, police, and fire.

New Forest District Council approves balanced budget for 2026/27

New Forest District Council approves balanced 2026/27 budget with £26.6m for key services, council tax rise, increased coastal funding and housing investment.

Big ticket discount at Bournemouth venue if you live in BH, DT, or SP postcodes

Bournemouth Oceanarium has slashed prices for locals this March.

Indian grocery store offering 'traditional ingredients' opens in town

An Indian grocery store offering “fresh and traditional ingredients” for everyday cooking has opened its doors in Bournemouth.

Dorset financial services firm announces acquisition of accountancy practice

Ward Goodman acquires Graham Latham’s Dorset accountancy practice, expanding business advisory and financial services for SMEs and individuals in the region.

Prehistory's most fearsome predator to go on display

One of prehistory’s most fearsome predators is set to go on display at a Dorset museum

Wedding show returns to iconic Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre next week

Discover The Big Bomo Wedding Show at Bournemouth Pavilion, 7-8 March. Meet Dorset wedding suppliers, venues, and experts—ideal for couples planning weddings.

Wimborne launched as Dorset Town of Culture 2026 with creative and cultural event

Wimborne launches its year as Dorset’s Town of Culture 2026 with creative showcase at Allendale House, featuring local artists, musicians and community groups.

Costa Coffee hosting a free matcha pop-up in Falkland Square, Poole today

Costa Coffee launches a nationwide matcha pop-up tour, starting in Poole’s Falkland Square with free matcha drinks, games, and exclusive prizes on 28 February.

Dorset energy firm gives back with February charity donation to Julia’s House

Dorset solar firm Save Energy donates to Julia’s House children’s hospice, supporting specialist care for seriously ill youngsters in Dorset and Wiltshire.

Teen baker builds flourishing home bakery and innovative self‑service 'bake fridge'

A young Dorset business woman has turned her love of baking into a thriving business, with a recent new venture proving very popular.

Bungalow hub in Dorset to deliver thousands more GP appointments for patients

The Cranborne Practice in Verwood is expanding with a new medical hub, boosting face-to-face GP appointments by 28,000 annually from summer 2026.

People urged to avoid making one mistake when pruning hydrangeas in their garden

Plenty of people have hydrangeas in their garden, but some experts have warned against making one mistake when pruning them

Shoppers warned to wear 'masks and gloves' to dispose of recalled toy due to asbestos

Breathing in high volumes of asbestos over a long period of time can cause asbestosis, which makes breathing difficult and enlarges the heart

DVLA £1,000 fine warning ahead of change coming to UK roads this weekend

The DVLA have warned not following the rules could result in a failed MOT and a £1,000 fine

Formula 1

Our writers share their predictions for the 2026 season

Ahead of the 2026 F1 season getting underway, our writers have given their take on how the campaign might unfold.

Why F1 betting markets can be hard to predict

F1 betting can be extremely hard to predict, so we've taken a look at the different aspects that racing fans should keep an eye out for in the markets.

How Drive to Survive changed fandom and racing culture

Ever since its debut in 2019, Drive to Survive has captivated audiences from across the world – here’s how it has changed F1 fandom and culture.

Who is in the mix for best of the rest in 2026?

F1.com's Lawrence Barretto runs through the candidates for which team could emerge as the leader of the midfield entering into 2026.

Drive to Survive’s producers on how Season 8 came together

A new F1 season means another helping of Drive to Survive, with the popular Netflix series returning to screens and retelling the story of a spectacular 2025 campaign – headlined by the three-way fight for the World Championship between McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.

Windows Central

Former Xbox 360 boss Peter Moore publicly shuts down Xbox co‑founder’s criticism of new CEO Asha Sharma, basically calling the 'gamer CEO' argument nonsense

Former Xbox 360 boss Peter Moore has shared his thoughts on new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma in a lengthy GamesBeat interview. Moore draws parallels to his own outsider journey, pushes back on Seamus Blackley’s “sunsetted” comments, and defends Phil Spencer’s legacy.

Windows 11’s February Insider update adds new features — but which ones actually matter? Here are the 11 biggest.

Windows 11 February 2026 Insider builds bring File Explorer tweaks, Cross-Device Resume, Hello ESS upgrades, and various Settings changes.

Logitech finally made a gaming mouse that vibrates on purpose — and it’s awesome

Logitech's new gaming mouse is the world's first to include haptics in place of a physical click system for the right and left click buttons, and it makes me wish more mice had this.

"Cancel ChatGPT" movement goes mainstream after OpenAI closes deal with U.S. Department of War — as Anthropic refuses to surveil American citizens

After Anthropic refused flat out to agree to apply Claude AI to autonomous weapons and mass surveillance of American citizens, OpenAI jumps right into bed with the United States Department of War.

Laffgaff

Mount Vesuvius overlooks which modern-day Italian city?

Naples.

Shark Math Test

How did the hammerhead shark do on his math test? He nailed it.

Itsfoss

Your Linux LTS Kernel Will Be Supported Longer Than You Thought

More breathing room for distros and enterprise Linux users as LTS kernels get extended EOL dates.