BBC News
After 50 years of Assad cruelty, Syrians search for dead loved ones - and closure
BBC international editor Jeremy Bowen finds Syrians desperate for answers about the missing and a reckoning for their killers.
'Train phone snatcher stole £21,000 from my bank apps'
Niall fell victim to theft while on a train and police data shows a rise in reports of these crimes.
Police chiefs call on ministers to guarantee funding
Police chiefs have warned the government that without further funding neighbourhood police officers - a government priority - could be cut.
Nato must switch to a wartime mindset, warns secretary general
Mark Rutte urged members to "turbocharge" their defence spending to prevent future war with Russia.
Two women in hospital after fair ride 'drops to ground'
The 55m-tall ride "failed and crashed", emergency services say.
She told us her husband would kill her, Harshita Brella's family say
Harshita's body was found in the boot of a car in east London last month.
Palace investigates after Household staff incident
A Buckingham Palace employee was reportedly arrested after an unofficial Christmas party at a bar.
Pilot avoids jail over crash that killed UK tourist
Jocelyn Spurway suffered fatal spine injuries in the light plane crash on Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
Miliband unveils new powers to approve large wind farms
The change is part of the government's new action plan for meeting its 2030 clean power target.
Hate people fidgeting? Join the misokinesia club
Why hair twiddling, pen tapping or thigh jiggling can cause rage and distress for some people.
Indian teen becomes youngest world chess champion
Gukesh Dommaraju defeated defending chess champion Ding Liren of China in a nail-biter final game.
'My driving instructor stalker made my life hell'
A woman stalked by her driving instructor while a teenager is calling for more protection for pupils.
Trump says Syria 'not our fight'. Staying out may not be so easy
The incoming US president has vowed not to involve America in foreign conflicts, but Assad's dramatic fall has upended the region's balance of power.
'I wish he'd lived to see new Syria' - Crowds bury anti-Assad activist
Mazen al-Hamada, who returned to Syria from the Netherlands, had publicly testified on the torture he faced while in prison.
Jeremy Bowen: Assad's palace, once a symbol of power, now an empty shell
The BBC's international editor returns to Bashar al-Assad's presidential palace, where he interviewed him in 2015.
Girl group Flo: 'British R&B acts struggle to be heard'
The girl group scored a top 10 album last month, but say UK R&B groups "can feel under-appreciated".
The Papers: Nato considers 3% target and 'Andrew's links to China spy'
Talks over European defence and the banning of a Prince Andrew associate from the UK lead the papers.
Weekly quiz: Which film bagged the most Golden Globe nominations?
How closely have you been paying attention to what's been going on in the world over the past seven days?
Net closing in on South Korea's president as MPs get death threats over impeachment vote
Yoon Suk Yeol - whose attempt to impose martial law backfired - faces another vote in parliament this weekend.
Bloody siege ends Myanmar army control of western border
Insurgents seized Myanmar's border with Bangladesh in one of the bloodiest battles of the civil war.
Humans may not have survived without Neanderthals
A new DNA analysis has shown that the arrival of modern humans from Africa was far from smooth.
Where next for Iran now that its 'Axis of Resistance' is shattered
The toppling of Bashar al-Assad has major consequences for Iran
The Wanted star Max George in hospital with 'heart issues'
The 36-year-old singer announced on Instagram that he would be spending Christmas in hospital.
Starmer defends sandwiches as Badenoch says they are 'not real food'
The Conservative leader says sandwiches are "not real food" while the PM says they are a British institution.
British trader found guilty of £1.4bn fraud in Denmark
He was sentenced to 12 years in prison - the heaviest penalty ever for a Danish fraud case.
Dinosaur skeletons fetch £12.4m at auction
The skeletons - two Allosaurus and one Stegosaurus - date back approximately 150 million years.
Body found in search for rugby star missing in flood
Police believe Tom Voyce tried to cross a flooded ford and his car was pulled along by the current.
King joins star Raye on Christmas visit to Battersea Power Station
King Charles appeared recharged and in a festive mood visiting a Christmas market at Battersea Power Station.
Comic Duncan Norvelle, famed for 'chase me' catchphrase, dies
A familiar face on 80s TV, he was on shows such as Surprise Surprise, Wogan and the Keith Harris Show.
Europe's economy falters as Trump presidency looms
The European economy is going to have a tough few years, if new forecasts are correct.
'My colleague had heart attack as bricks hurled' - summer riots police speak out
Frontline police feared an officer could have be killed after a peaceful protest quickly turned into a riot.
Alleged Chinese spy linked to Prince Andrew had 'unusual degree of trust', ruling says
An associate of the Duke of York has been refused entry to the UK because of national security fears.
No-one gets France's difficulty more than me, says Macron's new PM Bayrou
François Bayrou is the fourth prime minister this year, after Michel Barnier was ousted last week.
Thousands join rallies across Syria to celebrate fall of Assad
Syrians heeded the rebels' call to celebrate victory over the Assad regime which collapsed on Sunday.
Two arrested after Christmas fairground ride crashes to the ground
The men are being questioned on suspicion of perverting the course of justice, police say.
Man jailed for life for murdering partner's two-year-old daughter
Jeff Scott will serve a minimum of 26 years for killing two-year-old Isabella Jonas-Wheildon.
Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi in hospital after injury on overseas trip
The former House speaker suffered an unspecified injury while on an official trip to Luxembourg, her office says.
Steven Bartlett sharing harmful health misinformation in Diary of CEO podcast
Disproven health claims are accepted with little challenge by host on number one podcast, BBC investigation finds.
Mother of Harshita Brella suspect says she cannot believe he would have killed his wife
Sunil Devi says she thought Harshita and her son, Pankaj Lamba, were "happy in their lives".
I don't regret blocking action against Assad when I was leader, says Miliband
The ex-Labour leader says there was "no clear plan" when MPs were asked to vote for military action against Syria in 2013.
'Train thieves snatched my phone and took £21,000 from my accounts'
Niall fell victim to theft while on a train and police data shows a rise in reports of these crimes.
Questions over Andrew's judgement and finances raised again
The prince making a "close confident" of someone now suspected of being a Chinese spy raises questions over the royal's judgement, writes BBC royal correspondent Sean Coughlan.
Foot tapping and hair twiddling among triggers for those who hate fidgeting
Why hair twiddling, pen tapping or thigh jiggling can cause rage and distress for some people.
François Bayrou commands respect - but can he save France from crisis?
It is hard to see how he can avoid the same man-traps that felled his predecessor, writes Hugh Schofield.
The Indian teen who became the world's youngest chess champion
On Thursday Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest world champion at the age of 18.
Girl group Flo: 'British R&B acts struggle to be heard'
The girl group scored a top 10 album last month, but say UK R&B groups "can feel under-appreciated".
Weekly quiz: Which film bagged the most Golden Globe nominations?
How closely have you been paying attention to what's been going on in the world over the past seven days?
Russia launches huge attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure
The Kremlin says the strikes were in response to Kyiv using US-made missiles to attack its territory.
Officers cleared after 13-year-old boy with water pistol confronted by marksmen
The boy was surrounded by police and arrested in Hackney, as police thought his water gun was real.
New app lets police identify suspects in the street
It will enable police to confirm the identity of someone who is unable or refuses to give details.
Two bailed after baby hurt in suspected XL bully attack
An eight-month-old baby sustained serious injuries after she was bitten by a dog on Wednesday.
One man's Elvis Presley collection sells for £14,000
Items included the American singer and actor's silver ring, one of his cigars, and a wristwatch.
'Wonky' pooch wins Britain's ugliest dog title
Muppet, whose tongue is permanently hanging out of the side of his mouth, is in demand for selfies.
Bournemouth Echo
New jetty causes stir between 'two good Sandbanks neighbours'
A new jetty from Sandbanks has been approved despite it causing a stir between “two good neighbours”.
New Bournemouth town centre homes project to begin in new year
WORK will begin early next year on new Bournemouth town centre homes, developers have said.
Council to write to government opposing 3,000 homes target per year for BCP
CIVIC leaders will write to deputy prime minister to “strongly” oppose plans to build 3,000 homes every year in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Upside Down House to leave Bournemouth for new city
A POPULAR tourist attraction is leaving Bournemouth and moving to a new city.
'Fundamental' safety concerns remain on road where boy was killed
"Fundamental” safety issues remain on a road by Bournemouth Airport 18 months after a teenager was killed by a drunk driver, the coroner has said.
Family-run business closes after nearly 40 years in Bournemouth
A FAMILY run business has announced its permanent closure after nearly 40 years in Bournemouth.
Cat killed as electrical fire causes widespread outages
Elderly care home residents were left without heating after an electricity fault led to a fire that claimed the life of a cat.
People with depression, anxiety or loneliness offered free nature-based course
People with depression, anxiety or loneliness are being offered a free nature-based course aimed at improving their mental health.
Jeremy Clarkson's lager now sold in New Forest pub
Jeremy Clarkson is selling his Hawstone lager in a New Forest pub.
MP to attend Sandbanks ferry public inquiry
South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton said he will attend the public inquiry into the proposed price hike of the chain ferry.
Efforts to identify body found on beach continue
Efforts to identify and establish the cause of death of a man found on a beach continue.
'Disappointment' as county gets lowest funding in region to improve public transport
Campaigners say they are ‘very disappointed’ after Dorset received the lowest amount of government in the south west funding to improve public transport
Business announces relocation to Poole town centre
Evolve Announces Relocation to Central Poole Evolve, a leading provider of business support services, is delighted to announce its move to a new office at 3 Winchester Place, Poole. This move marks an exciting milestone in Evolve’s journey, providing enhanced facilities to better serve its clients and support future growth.
LIVE: 'Significant smoke' in sky as 35 firefighters tackle blaze
Firefighters are dealing with a fire that is causing a lot of smoke to be into the air.
LIVE: Crash between pedestrian and car closes road, air ambulance lands
A road has been blocked due to a crash
Pensioner 'out walking dog' killed in crash with 4X4
AN elderly man has been killed in a crash involving a car.
Murder accused named self 'Ninja Killer' before woman stabbed to death
A MAN accused of murdering a woman on Bournemouth seafront, named himself 'Ninja Killer' on social media, a court heard.
In The Dock: Man sexually assaulted child among the cases
The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:
Armed thug stumbled as he failed to rob Post Office
A man who attempted to rob an East Dorset Post Office at knifepoint has been jailed.
Wimborne's Save the Children parade to return on Saturday
Wimborne will see a “joyous celebration as colourful floats, festive decorations” and Satna on Saturday.
Police launch drugs raid but make no arrests
Suspected drugs have been seized following a warrant for an address in Sherborne.
Man sustained "serious head and facial injuries" from assault
A witness appeal has been launched by Dorset Police following a 'serious' assault in Bournemouth.
Restaurant chain giving away 5,000 free meals to children in BCP
Restaurant chain Chicken & Blues is giving away 5,000 free meals to children.
Two cars crash in Castle Lane West, Bournemouth
Emergency services were called to a two-car crash in Bournemouth on Thursday evening.
Restaurant plans big event to bring in new year
A Ringwood restaurant among the top 10 per cent in the world according to Tripadvisor has announced a New Year’s Eve event.
REVIEW: Shed Seven at the O2 Academy Bournemouth
By Richard Derbyshire INDIE legends Shed Seven returned to Bournemouth at the top of their game with new music and plenty of hits.
Popular Channel 4 show is looking for Bournemouth residents to apply
Popular BAFTA nominated Channel 4 series, The Dog House, is looking for people to appear on the new series.
'Iconic' Bournemouth hotel celebrates its 150th anniversary
An ‘iconic’ Bournemouth seaside hotel will mark its 150th anniversary today, Friday, December 13.
Pub conversion plan opposed
There is opposition to a plan to convert a Dorset pub into a home
REVIEW: Caoilfhionn Rose, Lighthouse, Poole
Singer, songwriter and producer Caoilfhionn Rose (pronounced Keelin) dropped in at the intimate Sherling Studio for an intriguing and somewhat uncategorisable performance.
Cheap train ticket hack that can reduce your rail fares by 78 per cent
Spilt journey tickets were a hack used by travellers willing to do the legwork, but now the Virgin app does it all in one.
Royal Mail and Evri Christmas 2024 post deadlines
Evri and the Royal Mail have shared their latest recommended posting dates for your post to arrive in time for Christmas
Holiday park operator 'supporting local suppliers' this Christmas
Holiday park operator Hoburne said it is expecting a rise in Christmas bookings at its nine holiday parks across the south of England.
UK economy unexpectedly declines for the second month in a row
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said gross domestic product (GDP) contracted 0.1% in October
Formula 1
From breakthrough victories to jaw-dropping comebacks – Hamilton's top 10 greatest moments for Mercedes
After 246 appearances across 12 years, Lewis Hamilton brought the curtain down on his Mercedes career at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with the seven-time world champion saying an emotional goodbye as he prepares to depart for Ferrari in 2025.
‘We have to improve everywhere’ – Vasseur targets major step forward for Ferrari after near-miss in constructors’ battle
Fred Vasseur has shared his ambition that Ferrari can significantly improve next season to once again be in the fight for – and hopefully win – the constructors’ title after McLaren claimed it by a small margin in Abu Dhabi.
Horner confirms Tsunoda and Lawson 'would be the candidates' to replace Perez for 2025
Windows Central
A new trailer for Mafia: The Old Country just dropped at The Game Awards
A brand-new trailer for the upcoming action adventure from Hangar 13 and 2K, Mafia: The Old Country, was just aired during the 2024 The Game Awards ceremony.
The Hero of Harran returns in a brand-new reveal for Dying Light: The Beast
Techland has given more details on the next entry in the Dying Light franchise during the 2024 The Game Awards show.
A massive Helldivers 2 update just dropped during The Game Awards show
Get ready to light worlds on fire as you take on the Illuminate in the latest Helldivers 2 update.
Borderlands 4 gets a big reveal at 2024's The Game Awards show and a release window
2K Games and Gearbox Software have officially revealed Borderlands 4 during the 2024 The Game Awards show.
Xbox's The Outer Worlds 2 makes a surprise appearance during the Game Awards 2024 — and it's coming next year
Xbox showed up to The Game Awards 2024 to reveal gameplay for The Outer Worlds 2, and it's launching in 2025.
FromSoftware stuns with the reveal of Elden Ring Nightreign at the Game Awards 2024
Elden Ring Nightreign is coming in 2025, a co-op focused game that builds on FromSoftware's legendary RPG formula.
Dishonored meets PvP in this new high-stakes thievery game
If you miss thief sim games like myself, then get ready for Thick as Thieves as it looks to bring the genre into the world of PvP.
CD Projekt RED returns with The Witcher 4 during the Game Awards 2024, and I couldn't be more excited
CD Projekt RED rolled up to the Game Awards 2024 to show off an early look at the next Witcher game, officially titled The Witcher 4.
Astro Bot wins Game of the Year at the Game Awards 2024, here's all the winners
The Game Awards 2024 is packed with nominations, but which games are winning? Here's all the winners.
Here's when you can play the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 free trial and the game modes you can try
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is getting a free trial week on all platforms, with a good chunk of the game's content available to try. Here's what you need to know.
Vertical taskbars are back in Windows 11, but not from Microsoft
You can now use vertical taskbars in Windows 11 if you have the latest beta of third-party app Start11. The app also lets you customize the look of the Start menu to match various versions of Windows.
How to use alarm, timer, and stopwatch on Windows 11
On Windows 11, you can use the Clock app to manage time with alarms, timers, and you can even use a stopwatch. In this guide, I'll show you how.
One of the best 360-degrees tracking webcams got a sequel, and it's better than ever... but a tad inconsistent
The Insta360 Link 2 follows one of the most popular 360-degrees gimbal tracking webcam with a new design and features, although it can be a little inconsistent.
How to rename any Bluetooth device on Windows 11
On Windows 11, if the name of your Bluetooth peripheral is too long or confusing, you can change it in at least four ways, depending on the device, and in this guide, I will explain the process.
This Xbox Game Pass Ultimate sale gets you 3 months for just $28.99
A limited-time sale on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate gets you three months of the gaming subscription for just $28.99.
Microsoft warns that Android 15 will make Windows Phone Link worse
Certain sensitive notifications will no longer appear in Windows Phone Link when connected to certain phones.
Was Sora AI trained using YouTube and gaming content? OpenAI might need a minute to check with the team.
A report suggests Sora may have been trained on game content as it can reproduce uncanny clips of Super Mario Bros, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike, and more.
OpenAI could raise the subscription price for its advanced AI models based on the value delivered
OpenAI Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Sarah Friar recently indicated it would make sense if the company raised the monthly subscription price to its advanced AI models for business users to match the value the system furnishes companies.
Windows Recall AI may sometimes capture intricate credit card details, even when Microsoft's sensitive information filter is enabled in Windows 11
Microsoft recently released Windows Recall in preview for public testing after being delayed due to security concerns. While it ships with a sensitive information filter, it was recently spotted capturing intricate financial credentials.
Laffgaff
What is the capital city of Washington state in the U.S.?
Olympia.
Eminem Fan
I told my wife I like Eminem and she told me she prefers Skittles. I told her I meant the rapper. She asked me why I would eat the wrapper.