The News - Wednesday, 05 August 2026

BBC News

Burnham 'looking into' conducting Epstein inquiry, says victims minister

Alex Davies-Jones tells BBC Newsnight she discussed an inquiry with the PM when she was re-appointed as minister.

Dewormer and scabies drugs being sold as cancer treatments, BBC investigation finds

A terminally ill man was offered the drugs by a stair lift salesman claiming they could shrink tumours.

Russian ballistic missile strike on Kyiv kills 14 and injures 22, officials say

The head of Kyiv's military administration says Russia is "once again massively attacking" the region around the city.

The avalanche that killed a climbing legend - and a generation of record-setting guides

Their fellow guides say their deaths in Pakistan dealt a devastating blow to Nepal's mountaineering community.

Tories offer Jewish groups meeting with ex neo-Nazi activist candidate

Joshua Bonehill-Paine was jailed over neo-Nazi activism, but has been selected to stand in a new Somerset Council seat in 2027.

Closing down streets so children can play

In Leeds, streets are being temporarily closed to traffic so kids have more space to safely play - an initiative proving beneficial to both children and adults.

Couple woke to find shirtless intruder in Travelodge room

Kim Hutchison says she was "petrified" to see a man in just shorts at the end of her bed in a Dundee Travelodge.

Armed man arrested near Trump's golf course ahead of president's visit

The arrest happened shortly before President Trump was due to host a fundraising dinner at the coastal golf course in California.

New guidance on single-sex spaces comes into force

The code covers spaces open to the public, such as toilets and changing rooms in England, Wales and Scotland.

Fashion brand Jaded has ad banned for 'glamourising smoking'

The advertising watchdog said Jaded London's marketing email made smoking seem appealing.

The cost of being single – and how friends are teaming up to beat it

Many singles face extra costs for housing, bills, food and holidays but there are ways to ease the burden.

Are summer sandals killing your feet?

They may keep your feet cool but some styles could be doing more harm than good.

'My grandmother subjected my baby to female genital mutilation behind my back'

In Colombia, where FGM is still practised by some members of an indigenous group, a landmark bill banning the practice has been enacted.

Mysterious elephant deaths in Kenya raise questions around pesticides

A wave of Kenyan elephant deaths has been blamed on pesticides, but experts tell the BBC they are doubtful.

'I feel like I dug my own grave': The workers caught in the AI transition

AI is reshaping the Philippines' outsourcing industry, raising questions over the future of the industry.

UK papers: 'Profits of war' and 'Super-rain'

Among Wednesday's headlines are oil companies' profits from the Iran war and "super-rain" in Britain.

Trump says Iran will be 'hit very hard' if Hormuz Strait not open soon as oil prices fall

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent both announced talks had progressed to allow shipments to resume.

Saudi-led group completes $55bn purchase of gaming giant EA

The deal takes the maker of titles including The Sims and EA FC into private ownership - and loads it with debt.

AI used new levels of 'autonomy and deception' to trick people in safety test

The UK's AI Safety Institute said recent behaviour from Anthropic and OpenAI models was malicious and unprecedented.

Video shows Russian drone chasing Ukrainian street vendor in 'human safari' attack

Ukraine said the video - showing a terrified civilian being hounded by a remotely controlled drone - amounted to a war crime.

Princess Eugenie gives birth to baby girl in Portugal

The daughter of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson welcomed her third child on Monday.

Major search under way for boy, 13, missing at sea

Emergency services were called to Hornsea, East Yorkshire, at about 18:00 BST.

Watch: Moment passenger train crashes into trailer carrying straw bales

Railway authorities in Poland said the driver was intoxicated when he stopped his vehicle on the tracks as barriers closed.

Ex neo-Nazi activist withdraws as Tory election candidate

Kemi Badenoch says Joshua Bonehill-Paine will now advise the Conservatives on tackling extremism.

Family 'devastated' by death of girl, 9, as man charged with murder

A 35-year old man has appeared in court charged with the murder of Minnie Merriman, who was found injured in Arbroath on Monday.

Anthropic AI used fake profiles to target people in hack then hid the evidence

The UK's AI Safety Institute said recent behaviour from Anthropic and OpenAI models was malicious and unprecedented.

Police chief considers joining legal action over PC Harper killers' early release

Two of PC Andrew Harper's killers are set to be included in the government's early release scheme, which begins in October.

Drone carrying explosives found at German airport, police say

The drone was found near Ukrainian cargo planes before another object collided with a cargo aircraft in mid-air.

See the Sun like never before with most detailed images yet

New images and footage of the Sun show "whirlpools" of activity that it has not been possible to see before.

Traitors star Joe Marler to become BBC's first celebrity Gladiator

The former rugby star will be known as Mauler when the fourth series airs in 2027, the BBC confirmed.

El-Sayed's victory sends tremors through Democratic Party

His win in Michigan sets up a high-stakes contest in November, testing a left-wing candidate's popularity in a swing state.

Misconduct proceedings dropped against officer who shot Chris Kaba

Sir Mark Rowley welcomes the IOPC's decision but calls the accountability process "disgraceful".

Pakistan restricts international media reporting

Anyone working for foreign media, including Pakistanis, will now need permission to report from anywhere outside three major cities.

Why some scientists are thrilled that a SpaceX rocket has crashed into the Moon

While the collision was an accident, it is a unique scientific gift for planetary geologists that could provide important data for future space missions.

The serial candidates standing against Farage in the Clacton by-election

BBC Verify takes a look at the serial candidates standing in Clacton, how they fared in previous elections, and whether they have ever won enough votes to get their deposits back.

Afghan boxer appears in court in connection with death of Scottish woman

Sharif Ahmadzai, 26, is being held in connection with the death of Elisabeth Ross from Edinburgh.

Uganda team manager has 'no idea' why boxers have disappeared

Commonwealth Games chef de mission Godwin Kayangwe says he hopes the athletes will return home before their visas expire in October.

Gary Glitter appears in court over historical sex offence charges

The former singer, whose real name is Paul Gadd, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court via video.

Waste workers help winner find binned €1m lottery ticket in Italy

The player only realised they binned the life-changing ticket after family told them the numbers he played for years had been drawn.

Disney agrees deal to let TikTokers use its films and TV shows in videos

A deal between will allow some creators to use clips from Disney films and TV shows in their videos.

Bournemouth Echo

'I can’t open my windows' - Man’s fury as dead deer left outside home for days

A deer hit by a car was dragged outside a Bournemouth man’s home and left there for almost a week after it died, creating an “unbearable” smell.

Residents slam 24-hour petrol station plan over 'sleepless nights and driver abuse'

A group of park home residents have hit out at a petrol station's 'horrendous' plans to open 24/7, saying they suffer from sleep deprivation and abuse from driver.

New sushi spot opens at Dolphin with fresh flavours and giant portions

A sushi spot is now serving up giant portions and fresh flavour in the heart of town.

Newly formed town councils slam BCP Council for being ‘deliberately obstructive’

Reform councillors have accused BCP of being “deliberately obstructive” to the work of newly formed town councils.

Hundreds of fans come to see FA Cup as club 'buzzing' for historic return

HUNDREDS of football fans both young and old poured into Sturminster Newton to take a glimpse at one of football's most iconic trophies

Dinosaur installation decapitated in "horrendous" vandalism in town centre

A dinosaur installation in Christchurch was vandalised with parts stolen and Police are now appealing for information.

Residents concerned after travellers set up in Kings Park again

Travellers have moved onto the recreation ground in Kings Park in Bournemouth.

Savers bid to sell alcohol despite antisocial behaviour concerns heard by committee

Savers Bournemouth store has applied to sell alcohol, despite concerns about antisocial behaviour.

Popular community pub set to reopen after "transformational" refurbishment

A popular community pub in Christchurch is set to reopen after a "transformational" refurbishment.

Poole resident finalist in national awards for supporting military families

A champion for veterans and military families from Poole has been named a finalist in a national awards scheme.

New waterfront seafood restaurant opens at luxury hotel in the New Forest

A stylish seafood grill and bar has opened at The NICI New Forest, a new luxury waterfront hotel in Lymington.

Upton Country Park issues warning over 'milky coloured' water

A historic Georgian house in Poole has issued a warning over a potential environmental risk affecting visitors.

Boy left 'heartbroken' after teddy bear goes missing on bus

A heartfelt appeal has been launched to find a young boy’s beloved teddy bear, the loyal best friend who sat by his side during surgery and is now missing.

Wingstop restaurant opening in Bournemouth pays £574 for planning application

A popular chicken restaurant set to open a branch in Bournemouth has paid more than £500 to submit its planning application

HMRC pension scheme worth £7,170 is being missed by thousands of grandparents

Grandparents who help with childcare could be missing out on up to £7,170 in extra State Pension through little-known HMRC childcare credits.

Dorset charity relaunches its charity-trained assistance dog programme

A Dorset charity has launched a new assistance dog training programme to help people with disabilities gain independence.

Two of the UK's most distinctive songwriters to perform in Poole this September

Romeo Stodart of The Magic Numbers and Ren Harvieu will perform at Lighthouse Poole’s Sherling Studio on Friday, September 25 at 8pm.

South Coast Darts Showdown returning to Bournemouth with star-studded line-up

The South Coast Darts Showdown will be held on Saturday, September 26,  at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC).

Funeral celebrant in Poole shortlisted for two categories at Good Funeral Awards

Richard Smart, founder of The Smartly Said Celebrant based in Poole, is a finalist in two categories at the 2026 Good Funeral Awards.

Dorset teams prepare to pull a Boeing 737 at Bournemouth Airport for Dorset Mind

Three determined teams from across Dorset will attempt to pull a 35,000 kg Boeing 737 over 50 metres at Bournemouth Airport in support of Dorset Mind.

Bournemouth Pier launches summer of family experiences and seaside fun

From adventure experiences at RockReef and PierZip to seaside dining and a range of offers, Bournemouth Pier continues to offer something for all ages.

Sherborne officially named as the Dorset Town of Culture for 2027

Sherborne has been officially named Dorset Town of Culture 2027, marking an exciting milestone for the historic town and its vibrant creative community.

Company prevented more than 120k tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in 30th year

Eco Sustainable Solutions prevented over 120,000 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide from entering the atmosphere in its 30th year of trading.

Sunseeker marks launch of its first highly anticipated Manhattan 94 model yacht

Sunseeker, headquartered in Poole, celebrated the launch of its Manhattan 94 model, marking the latest advance in its design and engineering programme.

Civil Aviation Authority rates Bournemouth Airport accessibility as 'very good'

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rated Bournemouth Airport as "very good" in its Airport Accessibility Report for 2025/26

Dorset Police issue broadband and mobile provider account takeover warning

A warning has been issued by Dorset Police for broadband and mobile phone provider account takeover and identity fraud following a concerning case

Sherborne Library reopens to the public after being closed for safety repairs

Sherborne Library has reopened on August 3 to the public after being closed for essential safety repairs.

Candid Divorce Lawyer column: Why More Couples Are Divorcing Later in Life

Once rare, so-called “silver splitters” are on the rise in the UK.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance raises more than £3,400 in football challenge

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance's first-ever Big Keepy Uppy Challenge, raised £3,406.25 to support the charity's life-saving work.

STARS Dorset and its CEO shortlisted for prestigious Charity Times Awards

STARS Dorset shortlisted in two categories at the Charity Times Awards in the Charity of the Year and Charity Leader of the Year categories.

Avon Social Club in Charminster celebrating its 100th anniversary this month

The Avon Social Club on Avon Road, Charminster, is inviting the local community to join in the 100th anniversary celebrations

Guide dog owner from the New Forest abseils down Spinnaker Tower for charity

Sue Taylor, from the New Forest, abseiled down Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth on Sunday, July 19, to raise money for Guide Dogs.

Dorset museum director releases new children's book about popular UK attractions

Rosanna Dean, director of visitor experience and commercial at The Tank Museum, has released a new children’s book about popular UK attractions.

Grassroots sports clubs in Dorset encouraged to apply for funding from Aldi

Grassroots sports clubs in Dorset are being encouraged to apply for new funding to support their work in the community.

Families urged to make the most of Playday with tax-free childcare this summer

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging families to explore the Tax-Free Childcare scheme ahead of Playday, the national day for play on August 5.

More than 1,000 supercars converged at Beaulieu Supercar Weekend

The Beaulieu Supercar Weekend, which took place on August 1 and 2, showcased a stunning array of rare hypercars and thrilling demonstrations.

Homelessness charity launches 24,901-mile Around the World Challenge

The ‘Around the World Challenge’ has been launched by national charity Changing Lives to raise £249,000 for people facing homelessness and other complex issues.

Housebuilder inviting prospective buyers to Discovery Day in Fordingbridge

Pennyfarthing Homes will hold a Discovery Day on Thursday, August 6, at The Forde Inn in Fordingbridge to present details about Sandle Park.

Letter: 'We live in strange and dangerous times'

I have to say that the Reform town councillors on Bournemouth and Poole town councils either do not understand the roles they have, or are being deliberately misleading about the way the town councils have been set up.

Savills Lymington expands residential sales offering with new strategic hire

Savills has appointed Charlotte Clark as associate director in its Lymington office, where she will work as a Sales Negotiator.

Bournemouth commercial equipment specialist achieves SafeContractor status

Bournemouth-based Southern Contracts, which supplies commercial laundry, catering, and hygiene equipment, has been awarded SafeContractor status.

10 airport hacks Brits swear by to avoid hand luggage fees – do they actually work?

Brits are wearing heavy boots, hiding bags and stuffing pockets to dodge airline baggage fees. Here are 10 of the funniest airport hacks

The best student bank freebies revealed as Nationwide, Santander and NatWest compete

Nationwide is offering students £100 cash plus £120 in Just Eat vouchers. Compare the best freebies from Lloyds, NatWest, Santander and HSBC.

Dog owners given urgent life-saving advice to keep their pets safe around open water

The Dogs Trust has given urgent life-saving advice for owners to keep their pets safe around open water

Jet2 issues hand luggage update as new Europe-wide rules are confirmed

Jet2 has confirmed customers will continue to receive 10kg of free hand luggage despite new Europe-wide cabin baggage rules due to come into force in 2027.

Little-known DVLA rule could see UK drivers fined £1,000 for simple mistake

Failing to notify the DVLA of this change can result not only in a hefty fine

Disposable BBQs removed from supermarket shelves amid UK wildfire risk

The likes of Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's and Co-op have removed disposable BBQs from sale amid wildfire risks in the UK

Formula 1

QUIZ: Test your knowledge on the 2026 season so far

As the drivers take a break and decompress after the first-half of the season, test your knowledge with 11 questions from 11 rounds of racing action.

Why F1 drivers have these nicknames

F1.com takes a look at the origins of some of the sport’s most unforgettable nicknames.

F1 UNLOCKED: WIN A PUMA x F1 FOOTBALL JERSEY

Lawson examines factors behind his impressive 2026 so far

Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson chats to F1.com about his impressive first half of the 2026 season – and what his hopes are for the remainder of the campaign.

8 unique locations to watch F1 races

Here are some of the most unique places to experience an F1 Grand Prix, featuring some of the most picturesque races on the calendar.

The 2026 Qualifying and race head-to-heads so far

This is how each team mate pairing has stacked up against each other during the first half of the 2026 F1 season.

Windows Central

Windows Insiders have one week to update their PCs, or else

Windows Insiders need to update to a build with a renewed flight certificate before August 11, 2026. Microsoft extended the requirement across Beta, Experimental, and Canary channels to prevent builds from expiring and keep automatic updates flowing.

The Windows Central Podcast sits down with Microsoft CVP Marcus Ash to discuss all things Windows 11

Windows design and Insider lead Marcus Ash chats with the Windows Central Podcast about the current state of Windows 11

Train Sim World 6 has reached the end of the line for Xbox One and PS4 — here's what it means for your virtual train driving on console

Dovetail Games has revealed an update on the future of Train Sim World 6 on Xbox One and PS4, and it's unfortunately reached the end of the line.

Gears of War: E-Day's multiplayer beta test leads (or perhaps overshadows) the first wave of Xbox Game Pass for August 2026

Xbox has announced the first wave of games coming and leaving Xbox Game Pass for the first half of August 2026, with the star of the batch being Gears of War: E-Day's early access multiplayer beta test.

Microsoft pays security researchers $20M following AI-backed surge in bug reports

Microsoft paid 562 security researchers $20 million for finding vulnerabilities in its software and cloud services, setting a new record for the bounty program.

Microsoft delivered plenty of Windows 11 updates in July — and I'm highlighting the most important changes for your PC

Microsoft tested new Windows 11 features in July 2026, including Taskbar controls, Start menu customization, improved Search, and File Explorer improvements.

A Lenovo Legion Go BIOS update is bricking handhelds, and out-of-warranty repairs aren't cheap

Reports indicate the N3CN42WW BIOS update is bricking some Lenovo Legion Go gaming handhelds. Subreddit mods warn users to avoid the update as out-of-warranty repairs cost over $270.

I tried GUNNAR glasses and accidentally ended up working an extra hour because my eyes didn't hurt

I went hands-on with GUNNAR Novato Onyx blue-light glasses and was shocked how quickly they reduced my eye strain.

Xbox has made some amazing special edition consoles over the last 25 years, so which one is your favorite?

Xbox is turning 25, and through the years we've been treated to a heap of incredible special edition consoles. But which is your favorite?

This cult indie action-RPG series has always intrigued me, and now that the first game is free on Steam while the sequel is leaving early access, it's time I give it a shot

Digital Sun and 11 Bit Studios have announced that Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault is finally leaving early access next month, and they have made the first game free to keep on Steam for a limited time.

I can't wait to use this new Outlook feature to rearrange my schedule

Microsoft is rolling out five new features to Outlook in August 2026, including mobile calendar drag-and-drop rescheduling, event message filters, and floating Copilot Chat.

I tested 5 major changes and improvements coming to Windows 11 this year: Microsoft is clearly serious about fixing Windows, and it's doing things right this time

When Microsoft announced its plans to fix Windows 11, a part of me was concerned that it was all just words and to expect broken promises. To my surprise, it's actually delivering.

"It's a pretty cool part of the Xbox ecosystem," Larian explains why 'Baldur's Gate 3' hits Play Anywhere — as the service grows faster than ever

Xbox Play Anywhere is one of my favorite features of the Xbox ecosystem, and August through to September might represent something of a watershed moment for it.

Laffgaff

What does an oncologist specialize in diagnosing and treating?

Cancer.

Electrical Cables

Why did the two electrical cables split up? There was no spark between them.

Itsfoss

This New Open Source Project Wants to Be the AI-First Alternative to Microsoft Office

Built by a single engineer using open source components, GenOffice bundles editors like Docs, Sheets, Slides, and PDF.

While Torvalds Makes Peace With AI in Linux, Greg Kroah-Hartman Draws a Line (Sort of)

His new policy keeps AI patches out of drivers/staging, the tree meant for newcomers to learn kernel development.