The News - Saturday, 28 March 2026

BBC News

Iran war splits older and younger conservatives - as pressure builds for Trump to find exit ramp

More than a thousand miles from Washington, the conflict was a dominant topic of conversation at CPAC.

Agent begged Epstein to have sex with model, emails show

Ramsey Elkholy introduced the financier to women as young as 18 in correspondence over almost a decade.

Iran-backed hackers breach FBI director Kash Patel's personal emails

A hacker group shares Patel's purported resume and photos - information, the FBI says, is "historical in nature".

Sanctioned oil tanker enters UK waters day after government crackdown threat

Ministers said earlier this week that sanctioned vessels can now be boarded by UK armed forces.

Maldives tells UK it does not recognise Chagos Islands deal with Mauritius

The Maldives is threatening international legal action to press its claim for control of the Chagos Islands.

PS5 price hiked by £90 due to global 'pressures'

The changes will see the recommended retail price of the PS5 rise from £479.99 to £569.99 in the UK.

Video shows US missile likely used in deadly strike on Iranian town, experts say

The analysts identified a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in footage of the strike on the southern town of Lamerd.

How Trump and the oil markets move in sync: a tango in six charts

Oil markets have been sensitive to Donald Trump's comments on the war. But are traders growing less responsive?

Why mountainous coastline gives Iran such control over Strait of Hormuz

Paul Adams explains why it is so dangerous to navigate the strait, one of the world's busiest oil shipping channels.

I escaped North Korea with my mum. Now I'm terrified she might be sent back

Geumseong survived a dangerous journey to South Korea, but his mother is stuck in a Chinese prison and may be forcibly repatriated.

Are UK students at risk of more deadly meningitis outbreaks?

The worst seems to be over, but questions remain about why this happened and whether it could happen again.

Tiramisu hot cross buns, doughnut eggs: Have Easter treats gone too far?

With the cost of living rising, shoppers give us their thoughts about the new versions of the Easter classics.

'We're having a moment' - fear and denial in Silicon Valley over social media addiction trial

The landmark decision in an LA court may go beyond immediate impacts on defendants Meta and YouTube.

The Papers: 'War to end in weeks' and '50% of public cut their spending'

The US saying the Middle East war will "end in weeks" and pressure on UK household budgets lead Saturday's papers.

Noah Wyle is back in A&E with new drama The Pitt: 'I hope people watch with empathy'

The former ER star is back playing a physician with PTSD in a new US medical drama.

'The gravest crime against humanity': What does the UN vote on slavery mean?

African and Caribbean nations want countries which benefited from slavery to pay compensation but it will not be straightforward.

Where have weekend jobs for teenagers gone?

Youth unemployment and minimum wage increases are causing teens to be squeezed out of job market.

'Memory of a generation': China mourns the sudden death of a controversial education influencer

The divisive 41-year-old was among the country's most prominent influencers.

US House to vote on DHS funding as travel chaos deepens

The planned vote is unlikely to end the funding impasse as long security lines at US airports continue.

Nepal's ex-PM arrested over fatal protest crackdown

More than 70 people were killed during an uprising last year which ousted Oli's government.

Afghan asylum seeker jailed for raping girl, 12

The sex attack carried out by Ahmad Mulakhil in Nuneaton in July last year led to protests.

Tears and defiance as Lebanese family bury child, 11, killed in Israeli strike

Jawad Younes and his uncle Ragheb were laid to rest on Saturday after their family compound was hit a day earlier.

Parkinson's drugs warnings review after some patients 'misled' over impulsive side effects

Warnings for dopamine agonist drugs are to be reviewed after BBC identified an error in patient leaflets.

Drone footage shows huge fire engulf historic mill

The former silk mill has been derelict since 2007 and has attracted anti-social behaviour.

Looksmaxxing influencer Clavicular arrested on battery charge

Peters is accused of instigating a fight between two women and then posting a video of it online, authorities say.

Noah Wyle is back in A&E with new drama The Pitt: 'I hope people watch with empathy'

The former ER star is back playing a physician with PTSD in a new US medical drama.

Tiramisu hot cross buns, doughnut eggs: Have Easter treats gone too far?

With the cost of living rising, shoppers give us their thoughts about the new versions of the Easter classics.

I escaped North Korea with my mum. Now I'm terrified she might be sent back

Geumseong survived a dangerous journey to South Korea, but his mother is stuck in a Chinese prison and may be forcibly repatriated.

'We're having a moment' - fear and denial in Silicon Valley over social media addiction trial

The landmark decision in an LA court may go beyond immediate impacts on defendants Meta and YouTube.

Where have weekend jobs for teenagers gone?

Youth unemployment and minimum wage increases are causing teens to be squeezed out of job market.

Iran war splits older and younger conservatives - as pressure builds for Trump to find exit ramp

More than a thousand miles from Washington, the conflict was a dominant topic of conversation at CPAC.

Video shows US missile likely used in deadly strike on Iranian town, experts say

The analysts identified a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in footage of the strike on the southern town of Lamerd.

How Trump and the oil markets move in sync: Five changes in charts

Oil markets have been sensitive to Donald Trump's comments on the war. But are traders growing less responsive?

'Our home is gone': BBC speaks to displaced families in Lebanon

The BBC's Hugo Bachega speaks to families in Beirut as more than a million people have been displaced in Lebanon.

Thousands gather for anti far-right march in London

The Together Alliance march has been backed by several high-profile celebrities.

No new meningitis cases in a week - but the threat might not be over

The worst seems to be over, but questions remain about why this happened and whether it could happen again.

Fresh delay for new EU border checks at Dover

The new system was due to be fully implemented at the Eurotunnel and Port of Dover on 10 April.

Gaza peace doubts deepen as attention shifts to Iran

With the world focused on the Iran war, there is increasing uncertainty about what happens next for Gaza. 

Twenty-two migrants die off Greek coast after six days at sea

Poor weather and a lack of food and water contributed to the deaths, the Greek coastguard says.

Beckhams' 'Blackpool' lighting plans irk neighbours

Neighbours of the Beckhams in Great Tew compare the plans to the Blackpool illuminations.

Major Scottish gangland figure Steven Lyons arrested in Bali

It comes after police in Scotland and Spain carried out a series of simultaneous pre-dawn raids on Friday.

'The gravest crime against humanity': What does the UN vote on slavery mean?

African and Caribbean nations want countries which benefited from slavery to pay compensation but it will not be straightforward.

'Breaking my ankle led me to fashion career'

A Manchester fashion student set up fashion label Recondition combining accessibility and style.

Book dubbed 'the work of angels' may have been made in the Highlands

Mystery surrounds the origins of the 1,200-year-old, intricately decorated Book of Kells.

Villagers vexed by sauvignon blanc fly-tipper

Picturesque villages in the Yorkshire Wolds have been blighted by bags full of bottles for months.

Returning ospreys avoid last season's love drama

CJ7 returned last year to find male 022 had spent a few days in the nest with a new female.

'My aunt's loft was insulated with thousands of cigarettes'

The last thing you'd expect to find in an attic is cigarette butts and filters, but that's exactly what was uncovered in a County Antrim house.

Bournemouth Echo

Circus school achieves 'outstanding success' at national competition

A circus school based in Southbourne has achieved 'outstanding success' at a recent national competition.

16th century Purbeck pub 'brimming' with history has majority gluten free menu

The Halfway Inn, a pub 'brimming' with history and character, is Pub of the Week.

'They will pose a significant financial burden' - Petition against parking charges

A RESIDENT of New Forest has launched a petition opposing new parking charges set to be introduced saying "they pose a significant financial burden on families."

Supermarket worker reports assault to police during patrol in Bournemouth

A SUPERMARKET worker reported an assault to police during a busy patrol shift across Bournemouth.

In The Dock: man with football banning order fined for failing to hand in passport

The following cases were heard in Poole Magistrates' Court:

Masked men break into petrol station and steal tobacco products

Two masked men reportedly broke into a petrol station earlier this week before stealing tobacco product.

Teen reportedly assaulted a boy before fleeing in red Audi A3

A teenager reportedly assaulted a boy known to him before fleeing in an Audi.

Driver hunted as cars wrecked in late-night hit and run crash

A DRIVER is being hunted after at least four cars were damaged in a late-night hit and run crash. Two of the cars were written off in the smash in Queens Road, just off Victoria Square, on Portland.

Plans to build 37 new homes in Dorset revealed

HOUSING and property improvement schemes have been submitted for the Sherborne area, with applications spanning major residential development, farm conversions, and home extensions.

Woman has to take transfer board on nights out due to lack of accessible taxis

A wheelchair user has revealed that she has to take her own transfer board out with her on nights out due to a lack of accessible taxis in the area.

Two young campaigners elected as Dorset’s new Members of Youth Parliament

Tyler and Jago elected as Dorset’s new Members of Youth Parliament, joined by deputies Anya and Finn, to champion youth voice in national debates.

Court users face one-mile walk after council shuts car parks for site sale

Solicitors have slammed the decision to sell off the car parks at Poole Magistrates' Court, which leaves people with a one-mile walk to get there.

Paramedics delayed by sand during beach callout

Emergency services were heavily delayed reaching a person due to heavy sand build up along the promenade.

Emergency services respond to reports of person in water in Wimborne

EMERGENCY services were called to an incident in Wimborne after reports of a person in the River Allen.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor visits new home with pet dog and protection officer

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been spotted visiting his new home on the Sandringham Estate with one of his seven dogs and a protection officer.

Busy shift for police in town after responding to multiple incidents

OFFICERS in Bournemouth responded and dealt with several incidents including illegal parking, shoplifting and a crash.

School rated 'outstanding' impresses with exceptional care and progress

The January inspection rated the school’s overall experiences and progress as 'outstanding,' noting the homely environment.

Acclaimed pop singer to headline classical 80s concert at Dorset venue this June

80s Classical at Lighthouse Poole on 5 June: T’Pau’s Carol Decker, Nik Kershaw and Johnny Hates Jazz perform classic pop hits. Tickets available now.

UK's largest Whitney Houston tribute to perform at Bournemouth venue this May

Queen of the Night, the UK’s leading Whitney Houston tribute, returns to Bournemouth Pavilion in May 2026. Book tickets for a live celebration of her hits.

Sherborne Boys’ U18 Sevens side named U18 Vase champions at Rosslyn Park

Sherborne Boys’ U18 win Vase at Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens 2026 in London, claiming top honours at the world’s largest school rugby sevens event.

New Dorset Police project uses martial arts to help tackle knife crime

Dorset Police’s Skills 4 Safer Streets uses martial arts to educate students on knife crime dangers, with events at local schools like Twynham in Christchurch.

Tribute to the Buena Vista Social Club coming to Dorset venue this October

Experience the Buena Bristol Social Club live at Lighthouse Poole, 8 October, celebrating Buena Vista Social Club classics with Cuban and Bristol musicians.

Major beach clean event planned for tomorrow to tackle plastic pollution

Join Oceanarium Bournemouth’s spring beach clean on 29 March for the Great British Spring Clean. Help tackle plastic pollution and support marine conservation.

Huge interest in chess as 70 school pupils gather for New Forest tournament

More than 70 pupils from state and independent schools joined Moyles Court School's senior inter-schools chess tournament in the New Forest near Ringwood.

Historic farm to creative hub: local businesses and live music thrive at craft centre

A craft centre in Lychett Minster has come back to life as a creative hotspot for independent businesses and community spirit.

Salon owner launches support evenings to create safe space for women

A beauty salon owner has launched a series of support evenings to provide a 'safe' and 'welcoming' space for women in the community.

Public consultation continues into proposed South West fire station closures

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service consults on plans to close eight on-call fire stations amid budget cuts. Public input open until 15 May 2026.

BCP Council: new £4.78million support fund launching to help BCP residents

BCP Council launches £4.78m Crisis and Resilience Fund from April 2026 to support low-income residents with financial hardship, housing, and essentials.

Upcoming road closures in Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch

Planned roadworks have been announced by BCP Council and are expected to cause delays of varying severity.

94 per cent of businesses unprepared for biggest tax overhaul in 29 years

Almost all UK businesses are unprepared for Making Tax Digital (MTD) changes from April 2026, Azets poll finds. New rules impact landlords, sole traders.

More than 140 grandparents and family members attend event at Dorset school

Sherborne Prep School welcomed over 140 grandparents for Grandparents’ Day, featuring classroom visits, pupil performances, and a traditional afternoon tea.

Mayor marks official opening of Christchurch Post Office at permanent location

Christchurch Post Office reopens at 24 Church Street with extended hours, new retail store, and community focus. Officially launched by Mayor Vivienne Charrett.

Bournemouth restaurant 'very proud' after placing second in national competition

The owners of a Bournemouth restaurant say they are “very proud” after securing second place in a national competition held in London.

Friendly driving service helps keep elderly people in the New Forest connected

Driving Miss Daisy offers safe, door-to-door transport and companionship for older people in New Forest and Christchurch, supporting independence and connection

Bournemouth school pupils enjoy trip to local amusement park

Year 4 pupils from Hill View Primary School enjoyed a workshop at Paulton's Park, exploring circuits and mechanisms behind theme park rides in Hampshire.

New health food shop opens on New Milton high street

Grape Tree opens new health food store on New Milton high street, offering health foods and wellbeing products in the refurbished former Halifax Bank unit.

Food hygiene experts issue warning following recall and salmonella outbreak

Tesco recalls Bastides Saucisson Sec after UK Salmonella outbreak sickens 84. Food hygiene, safety, and public awareness urged amid major meat recall.

Birthday wish comes true as former sailor revisits historic Lymington yacht club

Former sailor Paul Cavanagh celebrates his 103rd birthday with a visit to Royal Lymington Yacht Club, marking decades of membership and local history.

Families to receive more Child Benefit from April - here's what you’ll get

HMRC confirms Child Benefit rise for 2026. Find out the new weekly amounts for first and additional children.

'Do not eat' warnings for shoppers at Sainsbury's, Lidl, Tesco, Morrisons and more

Customers who have purchased any of the affected items are advised to take note of the possible health risks and follow the official guidance

Pension boost 2026 - full breakdown of new payments for those over State Pension Age

Pensioners could be hundreds of pounds better off from April 2026. Check the new State Pension and benefit increases.

Formula 1

Watch the FP3 highlights in Japan as Antonelli goes fastest

Mercedes returned to the top of the times in Japan with Kimi Antonelli fastest during the final practice session at Suzuka Circuit.

Antonelli beats team mate Russell in final Japan practice

Kimi Antonelli finished fastest in Free Practice 3 ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, beating team mate George Russell as Mercedes continued their strong start to 2026.

AS IT HAPPENED: Follow the action from FP3 in Japan

Live coverage of Saturday's third practice session for the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

A guide to in-race betting opportunities in Japan

When the lights go out at Suzuka, the real betting opportunities begin.

Our final Japanese Grand Prix betting predictions

Our expert betting writers make their final predictions before the action gets underway in Japan.

Our Bet Builder picks after Antonelli’s Japan pole

F1's expert betting writers have picked their four Bet Builder selections for the Japanese Grand Prix.

Wolff explains Russell’s ‘disadvantage’ in Japanese GP

Toto Wolff has conceded that George Russell with face a “disadvantage” entering the Japanese Grand Prix, with the team boss admitting that his driver will have to carry the issue he experienced in Qualifying forwards to race day.

Hadjar names Red Bull's 'end goal' in Japanese GP

Isack Hadjar admits that while scoring points in the Japanese Grand Prix is the goal, the ultimate priority is "to understand how we can make that car faster" after another difficult Qualifying session for Red Bull.

Lindblad outlines his bold approach to Q3 appearance in Japan

Arvid Lindblad relied on his courage in order to progress to Q3 at the Japanese Grand Prix for Racing Bulls.

Watch Round 2 of the 2026 F1 Sim Racing World Championship

The second round of the 2026 F1 Sim Racing World Championship gets underway on Saturday with drivers set to race at the Suzuka International Circuit.

What the teams said – Qualifying in Japan

The drivers and teams report back on all the action from final practice and Qualifying at Suzuka ahead of the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix.

Watch Qualifying from Round 2 of the F1 Sim Racing World Championship

It’s time for Round 2 of the 2026 F1 Sim Racing World Championship, with the sim racers preparing to go head-to-head at the Japanese Grand Prix.

Ride onboard with Antonelli for his superb pole lap in Japan

Kimi Antonelli took a commanding pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix as Mercedes locked out the front row once again.

What are the strategy options for the Japanese Grand Prix?

Matt Youson takes a look at the different pit stop and tyre options that are available to the teams on race day at Suzuka.

Windows Central

Bethesda Fallout 3 dev "initially felt a little touchy" about New Vegas' success because they "put in all this effort" for its foundation — "We made 90% of the art, we built the engine"

Fallout 3 dev "initially felt a little touchy" about New Vegas' glowing reputation because Bethesda's work building its foundation went unrecognized.

This RTX 5050 gaming laptop with an 18” FHD+ display, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD strikes a "happy medium between performance and price"

The Amazon Spring Sale is still in motion, and it's coughed up a generous 21% discount for the premium grade, ASUS ROG Strix G18 gaming laptop with the RTX 5050 GPU, AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX CPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD configuration.

Microsoft’s $146B AI spending spree is spooking investors — and could lead to its worst quarter since 2008

Microsoft could be looking at the worst quarter since the 2008 financial crisis because of AI, but it still wants to make a $146 billion infrastructure investment in 2026

Microsoft quietly shipped 9 meaningful Windows 11 improvements this year, and they actually make the OS feel more polished

Windows 11 has gained cross-device resume, MIDI upgrades, Sysmon, and more in early 2026. Here are all the new features and improvements.

Xbox drops a bunch of 25th Anniversary merch and signals a major vibe shift at Microsoft

Xbox is turning 25, and the celebration comes with a 73Studio collab and some new gear to fawn over. The brand is signaling a "Return to Xbox" that you can wear.

Laffgaff

The Bergamasco is a breed of which animal?

Dog.

Pig And Millipede

What do you get when you cross a pig with a millipede? Bacon and legs.

Itsfoss

After a Long Time, Ubuntu Shows Some Respect to Deb Packages

It will be easier to manage the classic Debian packages in the Snap/App Center in the upcoming Ubuntu 26.04 LTS.