The News - Saturday, 23 May 2026

BBC News

Putin vows retaliation after accusing Ukraine of hitting student dormitory

Ukraine said it hit Russia's elite Rubicon drone military unit in a Moscow-occupied part of eastern Ukraine.

Red Arrows to fly with fewer jets to preserve ageing fleet

The famous display team will fly with seven rather than nine aircraft for most of its displays.

'Eat, sleep, rave, repeat': Fatboy Slim lights up Radio 1's Big Weekend

The veteran DJ closed out the dance-focused day as the festival landed in Sunderland's Herrington Country Park.

How Panorama exposed rape allegations on Married at First Sight UK

Two women said they were raped by their on-screen husbands during filming of the Channel 4 show.

'Speed, money and compassion' - lessons from an Ebola survivor and other experts

Those caught up in West Africa's Ebola outbreak a decade ago on how best to tackle the current epidemic.

North Korea's powerhouse women footballers are in Seoul to fight for title

They beat the South Korean club to progress to the final of the Asian Women's Champions League.

Race for French presidency sees ex-PM Philippe as early favourite to beat populists

Latest polls suggest the centre-right figure is the only candidate who can defeat Marine Le Pen or Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

UK officials suggested single market for goods with Europe

Industry figures briefed on the move said the idea has not been taken forward at this point, after EU scepticism.

Ice baths, almond milk, meditation and a 'house like a hospital': The secrets of Salah's success

He's been hailed as an all-time great - but there's more to his success than meets the eye.

The Papers: 'Heat leaves Africa and Med in shade' and 'Can't cope without Catherine'

An expected heatwave, tax proposals and the Prince of Wales are prominent on Saturday's papers.

'I wish I had done it sooner': Behind the surge in breast reductions

More women in the UK are choosing to have breast reductions than enlargements for the first time.

The 'raucous' debut novel set entirely on one epic night out

Sufiyaan Salam has won an award from Stormzy, been nominated for a Bafta and made a video for Elton John.

The space race to create gym equipment for future astronauts

Scientists are attempting to build exercise equipment to be used on future space flights.

Charmain 'was on a mission' to find out who her prophet husband was. Then she died.

After a whirlwind romance and quickfire wedding, she was mysteriously found dead in a bathtub in Ghana.

Trump is putting pressure on Cuba - why and to what end?

The US has warned that a peaceful agreement with Cuba is unlikely, Havana insists this is a "fraudulent case" designed to justify military intervention.

She was killed by her stalker. Could social media companies have saved her?

A new law in the US will compel social media companies to comply with police warrants within days in cases of stalking.

How to keep cool at your summer festivals

As the summer festival season kicks off, temperatures are set to soar this bank holiday weekend.

King appears as surprise guest at sold-out Shakespeare play

The monarch sat with the audience to watch a performance of the Royal Shakespeare Company's The Tempest.

Tulsi Gabbard to resign as US director of national intelligence

Gabbard who has been largely out of public view during recent US operations says she is leaving due to her husband's illness.

Rubio visits India to sell energy as Iran oil shock persists

The top US diplomat has made statements offering to support India’s energy needs - but should Delhi give in?

Most people seeking US green cards must now apply from outside the country

A new policy closes a loophole that has allowed people to apply for a green card, or permanent residency, while in the country.

More than 40,000 Californians evacuated due to chemical tank leak

Officials have warned that the tank contains a "highly volatile" substance that could lead to an explosion.

France suspends extra EU border checks at Dover after hours-long queues

The port said extra checks would be suspended, after travellers faced queues as temperatures soared.

'Shameful' more spent on benefits than jobs for young people, says Milburn

Reforms are needed of the welfare system to tackle the high numbers of young people not in work or education, says Alan Milburn.

French mum and partner held until trial after sons abandoned by road in Portugal

The couple, who allegedly left the woman's sons on a roadside in southern Portugal, will remain in custody.

'Suddenly I could see myself': Why breast reductions are more popular now

For the first time, more people in the UK are choosing reduction procedures than enlargements.

How Panorama exposed rape allegations on Married at First Sight UK

Two women said they were raped by their on-screen husbands during filming of the Channel 4 show, MAFS.

Nascar champion Kyle Busch died of pneumonia and sepsis, family says

The driver died aged 41 on Thursday after "overwhelming complications" from the illnesses.

At least 82 killed in Chinese coal mine explosion

The blast in Shanxi province constitutes the country's worst mining disaster in 16 years.

Ebola experts and survivor from outbreak a decade ago warn lessons must be learnt

Those caught up in West Africa's Ebola outbreak a decade ago on how best to tackle the current epidemic.

Rubio meets Modi during India visit with energy high on agenda

The secretary of state wants to sell US energy to Delhi to make up for shortfalls caused by the Iran war.

Investors doubt Brewdog founder's shares pledge for new beer brand

James Watt plans to launch a new brand and wants to give shares to those who lost money in the Equity for Punks scheme.

E-scooter and officer collide near Buckingham Palace

Two men were taken to a major trauma centre and the area around the palace gates was cordoned off.

Race Across the World pairs unite for tribute run

Pairs from every series will race in the Greater Manchester Run a year after Sam Gardiner's death.

The twins who make people look twice at emergency callouts

Identical twins Lee and Liam Myers both work with the emergency services in the Scottish Borders.

Giant moon and UFO take over Chelsea streets

London's largest free flower festival returns to Chelsea with a cosmic "Out of this World" theme.

Pony rescued from inside tractor tyre

The RSPCA slowly freed the pony with help from residents in Stoke-on-Trent.

Bournemouth Echo

Poundland store near Castlepoint to close next month

Another Poundland store is due to close its doors next month.

£1.4million luxury property plans given go ahead in Sandbanks

Planning permission has been granted to redevelop a luxury property in Sandbanks with a guide price of £1.4 million.

D-Day Remembrance service honouring Poole's historical role

A D-Day remembrance service will take place at Poole Quay next month honouring the town’s key role and history.

Post Office officially opens in Bournemouth town centre with ribbon cutting

A Post Office has officially opened in Bournemouth town centre.

Hundreds head to Christchurch Quay for annual food festival

One of the south west’s most popular food events, the Christchurch Food Festival returns this bank holiday weekend

MAFS UK contestant speaks on 'big issues' with show

A New Forest man who appeared on the reality dating programme Married at First Sight (MAFS) has spoken out against the "big issues" with welfare on the show.

RECAP - News, traffic and weather updates on hot Bank Holiday weekend

We will be bringing you the news, traffic, travel and weather updates from across BCP

90s pop star's special bond with Dorset village

90s pop star Chesney Hawkes has long had a special connection to Dorset, shaped by his friendship with Cerne Abbas resident Vic Irvine, who sadly passed away in 2025.

'Volatile' man wanted for failing to attend court swiftly arrested in Poole

Police arrested a wanted man during high-visibility patrols in Poole.

Drugs including crystal meth found after police respond to domestic violence call

A bag filled with crystal meth and other illegal drubs was found by police responded to a reported domestic abuse

Sandbanks beach in Poole named the most photographed beach in the UK

New data from Jessops shows Sandbanks beach in Poole was named the most photographed in the UK, topping the list with 48,600 Instagram hashtags.

73 road traffic offences recorded during Dorset Police operation in east Dorset

Last month, Dorset Police officers took to the roads with CSW volunteers and the Camera Safety Team in east Dorset.

New Forest MP wins chance to introduce private member's bill

A New Forest MP has topped this year’s private members’ bills ballot.

PICTURES: Christchurch Food Festival makes long-awaited return

THE Christchurch Food Festival returned this weekend and thousands of food lovers filled out the scenic quayside.

Thousands pack into Christchurch Quay for return of 'fantastic' food festival

Thousands of food lovers flocked to Christchurch on Saturday to soak up the sunshine at one of the southwest's largest food festivals.

First chick hatches from historic pair of ospreys in secret garden

The first chick has finally hatched this year from a historic breeding pair of ospreys in Wareham.

Discover Dorset’s hidden gem for luxury bathroom bargains

Discover Dorset’s hidden gem for luxury bathroom bargains.

Charity motor show at Lulworth Castle marks 10th anniversary with £42,000 raised

Dorset Blind Association's 10th annual Motor Show, held at Lulworth Castle on May 17, raised over £42,000 in support of people living with sight loss.

An Evening with Harry Redknapp among new shows on sale this week at Dorset venue

Harry Redknapp is part of a new lineup of shows on sale announced by Lighthouse Poole, featuring a variety of performances ranging from plays to music concerts.

Man caught with cocaine, ketamine and MDMA - In The Dock

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

'De-Disneyfied' Grimm Tales production comes to Bournemouth theatre next week

Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) students will bring Carol Ann Duffy’s visceral, physical Grimm Tales to the historic Palace Court Theatre from 28–30 May.

Tournament to be held at new AFC Bournemouth performance centre on May 29

Businesses have the chance to play at AFC Bournemouth's Performance Centre next week, as the event is scheduled for May 29, at Canford Magna in Poole.

More than '1,600 drivers caught running red lights' in Dorset

More than 1,600 motorists were caught running red lights across Dorset in the past three years, according to new data obtained by cinch.

Planned upcoming roadworks across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

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

Ukrainian fitness instructor 'grateful' celebrates two years running business

A Ukrainian pilates instructor is celebrating two years of running her business and says she is “grateful” for the support she has received throughout her journey.

Large algae blooms reappear across Poole Park lake

Algae has resurfaced on a popular lake.

Bournemouth panto favourite takes centre stage with new stand-up show tonight

Panto favourite Noel Brodie is stepping into the spotlight with a new solo comedy show at a Bournemouth venue from today.

New appointment and former apprentice promotion at Beaulieu River harbour

Experienced marine operator Gary Nicol has been appointed as the Beaulieu River's new Marine Operative at Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour.

Martin Lewis says one simple switch could stop Brits wasting money on holiday

From Chase to Barclaycard Rewards, Martin Lewis has shared the best ways to avoid hidden charges when using your card overseas.

Dear England full cast list for BBC sports drama series starring Joseph Fiennes

Dear England is a BBC facts-based sports drama, starring Joseph Fiennes as Gareth Southgate as he takes on the England national team manager role

M&S introduces major change to delivery fees for online orders

Marks & Spencer has raised its minimum spend for free delivery from £60 to £75 for online orders of clothing, home and beauty products

Formula 1

Stella reacts to Piastri Red Bull move rumours

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella has shared his reaction to various "silly season" rumours, including speculation linking Oscar Piastri to Red Bull.

Can anyone stop Russell’s Canada comeback?

Mercedes brought their first in-season upgrade for 2026 to Montreal – and the early signs were very encouraging as George Russell hit the ground running to pip his team mate Kimi Antonelli to Sprint pole. But can he continue that form and get his championship back on track?

Palmowski claims F1 ACADEMY pole position double in Montreal

Red Bull’s Alisha Palmowski sealed pole position during Qualifying for F1 ACADEMY in Montreal.

What the teams said – Sprint Qualifying in Canada

The drivers and teams report back after a busy Friday from the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix.

Verstappen complains of bouncing Red Bull in Canada

Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar both complained about the ride of the Red Bull RB22 in Sprint Qualifying ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, with the former stating "my feet were flying off the pedals".

Canada Sprint Qualifying ‘best I’ve felt all year’ – Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton ended Sprint Qualifying in Canada on a high despite losing out to McLaren at the last moment.

Norris reflects on Sprint Qualifying P3 after early worries

Lando Norris was pleased with his P3 result in Sprint Qualifying at the Canadian Grand Prix, with it coming just hours after McLaren appeared further off the pace during Free Practice 1.

Lawson laments tough Friday in Canada after car issues

Liam Lawson admits that "I'm going to be playing catch-up" for the remainder of the Canadian Grand Prix weekend after mechanical issues prevented him from doing almost any running on Friday.

Russell ‘never doubted’ himself in return to Canada Sprint pole

George Russell secured pole position for the Sprint in Canada ahead of his Mercedes team mate Kimi Antonelli.

Russell grabs pole position in Canada Sprint Qualifying

George Russell will line up in pole position for the Sprint at the Canadian Grand Prix, with the Mercedes driver set to share the front row with team mate Kimi Antonelli.

Russell clings on to win dramatic Canada Sprint over Norris

George Russell survived a tense clash with his team mate Kimi Antonelli to win the Sprint in Canada.

Palmowski seals F1 ACADEMY Opening Race victory in Montreal

Alisha Palmowski claimed a commanding win in the Opening Race of the F1 ACADEMY weekend in Montreal.

LIVE COVERAGE: Russell wins feisty F1 Sprint in Canada

Live coverage of Saturday's F1 Sprint ahead of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix.

Best Qualifying bets for the Canadian Grand Prix

We’ve picked the best odds available on the market to anyone looking to bet on the Canadian Grand Prix Qualifying session.

Mekies downplays talk of Verstappen leaving amid rumours

Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies has dismissed suggestions that he will have to change his driver line-up for next season, stating that Max Verstappen "is telling us he's happy at Red Bull".

Canadian Sprint odds and what the markets predict

We’ve picked the best bets available on the market to help you make your Canadian Grand Prix Sprint predictions.

How Williams' headhunting shows that Vowles means business

Team Principal James Vowles has outlined how hiring Piers Thynne from McLaren demonstrates Williams' ambitions for the future.

Windows Central

"Congrats to the owners of a brand new $6k paperweight": Valorant dev Riot makes players think Vanguard anti-cheat will brick their PCs, causing uproar — here's what's really happening

A new controversial post from Valorant studio Riot Games has sparked an uproar in the game's community, fueling a misunderstanding about its anti-cheat.

Configure Windows 11 Pro for hybrid teams: remote desktop, dynamic lock, and policies

Configure Windows 11 Pro for hybrid teams using Remote Desktop, Dynamic Lock, and Group Policy to improve security and remote productivity.

"I regard it as a great missed opportunity": Former DOOM dev reveals new details about Xbox's canceled Halo 'Titan' MMO that never saw the light of day

Ex-DOOM and Ensemble Studios dev Sandy Petersen has revealed new details about Microsoft's dead Halo MMO that was canceled 20 years ago.

Celebrating the community: Introducing Windows Central REPLAY, a new way to win prizes and share your wildest gaming moments

Making gaming fun again—one clip at a time, and you're the star.

Windows 11 tests new accessibility upgrades including screen tint and improved Braille support

Windows 11 is testing several new accessibility features through the Insider Program, including improved support for Braille displays, a new screen tint option, updates to Voice Access, and changes to Magnifier.

Flashback: The 2016 Chrome and Android‑apps story that predicted today’s Googlebooks moment

A 2016 warning about Android apps on Chrome feels newly relevant as Googlebooks pushes Android PCs into the agentic era and challenges Microsoft again.

"I wish these huge corporations would stop ruining things people love" — Destiny 2 fans rally with petition and call for everyone to log on June 9

Destiny 2 fans fight ending updates with a massive Change.org petition and a June 9 global log-in protest.

"AI definitely has a place in gaming": I asked readers about the future of gaming AI, and I wasn't expecting these answers

AI fatigue is already a real thing, but I can't help but assume that its implementation in gaming is only getting started. I asked our readers what they think about this trend, and most answers were surprisingly helpful. Here's what Windows Central readers think about AI in gaming.

I tested Windows 11’s return of taskbar positioning and resizing, and it’s not the classic Windows 10 experience

Microsoft brings back Taskbar positioning and smaller Taskbar options on Windows 11, though some Windows 10 features remain missing.

Why the Dell Inspiron stands out as a solid mid‑tier Windows laptop with surprisingly sharp 2K display quality

Dell is offering discounts on the Dell 16 Plus laptop and several of its configurations. If you're looking for a mid-range that can help you beat schoolwork or office work, this could be the answer to your prayers.

I bought Valve's new Steam Controller with my own money for a solid week of PC gaming — and you only need to know about one genuine downside

Valve takes another shot at a PC gaming controller that tempts players away from their consoles, and it convinced me to buy. So, was it worth the asking price?

Laffgaff

What was Dorothy’s surname in ‘The Wizard Of Oz’?

Gale.

Transparent Billboard

I saw a transparent billboard yesterday. I thought to myself, "That's a clear sign".

Itsfoss

Firefox Just Saved Us All from Spammy Online PDF Tools

Firefox's PDF viewer just got a feature that online tools have been charging for.

In a Weird Case, German Deutsche Bahn's Website Was Locking Out Linux Users

DB says it was not intentional, and the block seems to have been fixed.