The News - Monday, 20 January 2025

BBC News

Dramatic day ushers in a fragile Israel-Hamas ceasefire after 15 months of war

Three Israeli women hostages are released in Gaza, with 90 Palestinians set to be freed from Israeli jails in return.

'I want to fulfil my dead brother's dream', says Gazan boy

The task ahead is daunting for Gazans wishing to return to the shattered ruins of their homes.

Trump promises blizzard of executive orders on first day of presidency

At a raucous Washington rally, the president-elect pledged to to launch deportations, slash environmental regulation and release classified files within hours of taking office.

Trump looks to remake America with sweeping second act

Donald Trump has promised seismic change - from inauguration day, he will be judged by his actions, writes Sarah Smith.

US-UK relations will flourish under Trump, says PM

Sir Keir Starmer sends his congratulations to Donald Trump ahead of the US presidential inauguration.

TikTok restores service in US after Trump pledge

TikTok is resuming services to its 170 million users in US after President-elect Donald Trump said he would give the app a reprieve.

Cervical screening knowledge gap 'costing lives'

Women can ask for adjustments and this may encourage some people to get tested, the Eve Appeal says.

Child Trust Funds worth billions unclaimed: 'I got £955'

Latonya Skye-Paterson discovers she is one of thousands of people with money to claim on turning 18.

Chappell Roan: 'I'd be more successful if I wore a muzzle'

The star talks about the impact of fame and the pressure to conform in an exclusive BBC interview.

A new Traitors series and Jade opens up about Harry Styles date: This week's big releases

We've rounded up all the key culture releases for the week ahead, from film to music.

Heartbreak at 'family-destroying' disease of girl, 11

Anna Roberts, 11, is one of just 39 people in the UK with the CLN3 strain of Batten Disease.

Joy fades as Gazans return to destroyed homes

After the ceasefire came into force Gaza residents celebrated, but many of those returning are facing devastation.

Hugs and tears: How Israeli hostage return unfolded

Three freed hostages are returned to Israel after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into force.

Who are the three Israeli hostages released by Hamas?

Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari have been freed 471 days after being taken hostage.

Here's what to know about Donald Trump's inauguration

Donald Trump will be sworn in on Monday during a series of events that will kick off his presidency.

The Papers: 'Gaza hostages out' and 'world readies' for Trump

The release of three hostages from Gaza as a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas came into force yesterday dominates Monday's front pages.

What Trump plans on day one back in the White House

The incoming president has said he will "make heads spin" with a blitz of as many as 100 executive orders on the day of his inauguration.

UK's hierarchy of accents: 'I thought mine made me sound stupid'

Sociolinguists say accent bias is prevalent in the UK and affects how people are perceived by classmates, colleagues and friends.

Nine missed chances to stop Tinder predator

Women who tried to report Christopher Harkins said they felt "dismissed" when they approached Police Scotland.

Brexit fishing row heads for trade court showdown

The UK has banned European vessels from catching the silvery fish species in its North Sea waters but the EU is challenging the move.

Abuse report care pupils felt like 'troublemakers'

Allegations of abuse by former pupils at Wings School in Cumbria "almost double" in a month.

Shein backlash divides shoppers: 'Everywhere else is too expensive'

Some young shoppers will continue to buy from the fast fashion giant despite concerns over how workers are treated.

Funeral home inquiry: Police pass file to CPS

Humberside Police says it conducted a "meticulous" investigation following the discovery of 35 bodies.

Trump to declare national emergency at border in flurry of day one orders

The incoming president plans to sign as many as 100 executive orders as his administration begins.

Melania's striking hat and other eye-catching looks

Inauguration fashion can communicate strength, elegance, or a broader political message.

How can I watch the US inauguration, and who's performing?

A day of events is under way that will see Donald Trump return to the White House.

Tech billionaires join Trump for church service

Top tech billionaires including some who were critics of Trump during his first term flock to his inaugural celebrations.

Watch: Tea with Biden and carpooling to the Capitol - Trump's day so far

"Welcome home." The outgoing president welcomed his successor to the White House before heading to the Capitol.

Southport killer was referred to counter-terror scheme several times before attack

The 18-year-old was known for having a fascination with violence and despotic figures including Hitler.

'I came back to life,' says freed British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari

The 28-year-old is among the first three people to be released from captivity in Gaza.

Weight-loss drugs may boost health in many ways

New weight-loss drugs have broad health benefits but also come with risks, researchers warn.

Three more charged over pro-Palestinian rally in London

The Met Police says there was a "coordinated effort" to breach conditions imposed on the rally.

Sara Sharif's father's sentence referred to Court of Appeal as 'unduly lenient'

The Solicitor General has referred Urfan Sharif's sentence to the Court of Appeal.

What Trump plans to do as soon as he's back in the White House

The incoming president has said he will "make heads spin" with a blitz of unilateral actions after he is sworn in.

Trump is set to sign executive orders today - but what are they?

A US leader can weigh in on anything affecting federal government by issuing their own directions.

The significance of presidential pardons

The outgoing president aims to protect a group of people - who he says did no wrong - from prosecution.

'I got £955 from a Child Trust Fund I didn't know I had'

Latonya Skye-Paterson discovers she is one of thousands of people with money to claim on turning 18.

Why is TikTok back after being banned for one day?

What happens to TikTok in the US now that Donald Trump becomes president?

Chappell Roan: 'I'd be more successful if I wore a muzzle'

The star talks about the impact of fame and the pressure to conform in an exclusive BBC interview.

Working from home not proper work, says ex-Asda boss

Lord Rose says it harms productivity but expert says hybrid work can be as good as full-time in the office.

Leeds nurse has head tumour removed by keyhole surgery in UK first

Experts in Leeds say new technology now allows them to reach previously "inoperable" tumours.

Zulu king's first wife fails to halt third marriage

King Misuzulu is embroiled in a row over whether a planned marriage to a new wife can go ahead.

Cervical screening knowledge gap is costing lives, claims cancer charity

Women can ask for adjustments and this may encourage some people to get tested, the Eve Appeal says.

Bournemouth Echo

What's next for Bournemouth town centre? Here's what one expert thinks

Bournemouth town centre should expect a “vibrant” future with a greater focus on leisure rather than shopping, an academic has said.

Two people seriously injured after 'head on' crash involving sports car

Two people were taken to hospital with serious injuries after a “head on” crash outside Bournemouth Airport.

Historic beach hut in Bournemouth set to be demolished

Britain's oldest public beach hut is set to be demolished by a seaside council.

The Range to open another superstore in Dorset

Blandford's Homebase store will become a new superstore at the end of the month.

Two New Forest ponies killed in crashes

Two ponies were killed in crashes around the New Forest last week, it has been claimed.

Bournemouth could now lose Pets at Home, Pizza Hut and charity shop

LIDL has cleared its first major hurdle of building a new supermarket in Bournemouth after a planning officer said ‘yes’.

Post with nearly 800 shares helps to find late grandfather's 'prized possession'

A stolen bike has been found in Poole after a plea for help was issued on Facebook.

Family demand answers over woman’s ‘brutal’ killing at Travelodge

The family of a hotel receptionist “brutally” killed by a man suffering from paranoid schizophrenia have said they “desperately need answers” as to how the attack could have happened as an inquest begins into her death.

Woman walking young granddaughter through Lower Gardens racially abused

A woman walking her young granddaughter through Bournemouth town centre was racially abused.

Cineworld staff say 'heartfelt' thank you to Tower Park cinemagoers

Staff at Cineworld have said a “heartfelt” thank you to those who have been to a screening in Poole over the years.

Bag stolen from elderly customer in Christchurch Poundland

CCTV images of a man have been released after an elderly customer had their bag stolen from Poundland in Christchurch.

Man sustains injuries after assault in Christchurch Aldi

A witness appeal has been launched after a man sustained injuries from an assault in Aldi in Christchurch.

Man 'bleeding everywhere' after attack in Bournemouth

A man was left with cuts to his head after an attack in Bournemouth.

Man attacked by two others in Bournemouth town centre

Two men attacked another man in Bournemouth town centre.

'I want to restore what has been left to rot in Bournemouth'

This column is called “the view from Westminster” but, if I’m being upfront with you, it’s about you, it’s about Bournemouth. It’s about home.

Improvements planned for village hall

IMPROVEMENTS planned at a Purbeck village hall include 32 solar panels and two electric vehicle charging stations in the car park.

DJ who refused to turn down music lands bar in hot water

A DJ who refused to turn his music down is one reason why a bar has landed in hot water with the authorities.

Man on causeway bridge taken into care

A man was taken to safety after he was found on a bridge.

Man comes forward after assault in Wareham takeaway

A man has come forward following the Wareham assault CCTV appeal issued by Dorset Police.

Inquest set to begin into brutal killing of hotel receptionist

AN INQUEST is set to begin into the brutal killing of a Travelodge receptionist who was attacked by a “paranoid schizophrenic”.

Council HQ refurb uncertain as devolution looms

Plans to refurbish Appletree Court, home of New Forest District Council, remains uncertain

Motorists and BCP Council find common ground at meeting

Motorists and senior councillors at BCP Council are one step closer to seeing eye to eye following a “positive” meeting.

In The Dock: Verbally abusive man on Bournemouth Pier among the cases

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Rise in visitors to Bournemouth this Christmas - as bigger promises are made

More than 5.5 million people flocked to Bournemouth this Christmas – representing a 12.5 per cent increase year-on-year.

Ringwood pub with 'crackling log fires' among best in UK for cold winter days

The High Corner Inn in Ringwood, near Bournemouth, has been named among the UK's best cosy pubs for cold winter days.

Police chief slams officers found guilty of gross misconduct

One of Dorset's top police chiefs has slammed the actions of officers found guilty of gross misconduct

New BCP 'growth board' to be set up by council

A new ‘growth board’ is to be set up at BCP Council aimed at giving businesses a voice on decision making.

Sauna with sea views opens to the public

A NEW sauna has opened on the seafront.

Eight luxury homes set to be unveiled as part of new development

Savills Estate Agents is having an opening of brand new eight homes in Wimborne this weekend.

Appeal to help get historic train carriage back on the tracks

Dedicated volunteers have launched an appeal to raise £20,000 to complete the restoration of an historic TC carriage

Spanish government causes surge in Jurassic Coast holiday home searches

A BUSINESS that sells holiday homes on the Jurassic Coast has said enquiries “rocketed overnight” after Spain proposed extra tax on non-EU residents.

Poole’s RNLI history revealed through vintage donation box

If you have old Poole RNLI memorabilia, photographs, or clippings, the RNLI would love to see them shared in the comments to celebrate its rich heritage.

School is handed outstanding Ofsted rating

The school is set on an eco-friendly 45-acre site near the New Forest and Dorset coastline providing a positive learning environment for its students.

Tech firm expands with new senior hires and internal promotions

Twenty7tec, a tech company that provides solutions for financial advisers, has appointed two new senior leaders and promoted two existing team members.

Formula 1

Aston Martin won the ‘World Championship for most updates’ last season as new team boss Cowell sets out ambitious 2025 target

New Aston Martin team boss Andy Cowell has set out a “minimum” level the squad need to reach with car development going forward if they are to climb back up the pecking order and ultimately achieve their title-winning goal.

‘Today we start a new era’ – Hamilton shares emotional message after ‘dream’ first appearance for Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton has taken to social media to share his excitement after appearing at Ferrari’s Italian headquarters in Maranello for the first time.

All the key pre-season dates for F1 2025

Excitement is building as the start of the 2025 season moves ever closer – but before racing gets underway in Australia on March 14-16, there are several key dates for F1 fans’ diaries during what looks set to be a busy pre-season.

Windows Central

Microsoft News Roundup: Nightmare week of price hikes, rebrands, and remembering how Bill Gates lost $400 billion

Negative headlines surrounded Microsoft this past week as the company rebranded its most iconic apps, raised the price of Microsoft 365, and was attacked by Salesforce.

Lego games turned my kid into a bonafide gamer — and here's 7 of the best

These seven timeless Lego games bring fun for the whole family and are perfect for gaming on Xbox, Steam Deck, or your favorite handheld device. With deals starting at just $2 on CDKeys, they offer a budget-friendly way to introduce your little ones to gaming adventures beyond the blocky world of Roblox

The gaming trends I expect to define 2025

Here are the five big gaming trends that I expect to see all throughout 2025.

My all-time favorite wired controller (with superior input latency vs. Xbox's) is on sale for under $71

Amazon is hosting a tremendous discount for the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma wired controller for 53% off its MSRP.

Team Cherry offers an update on 'Hollow Knight: Silksong,' insisting the gameisstillcoming

The developers of the long-awaited Metroidvania title: Hollow Knight: Silksong, have announced on social media that the game is still in development and will be released soon.

Cisco debuts AI defense to combat misuse of AI tools, data leakage, and sophisticated threats — despite Sam Altman's confidence in AI's ability to prevent existential doom even with a 99.999999% probability

Cisco's announcement comes while security and privacy are significant challenges for the progression of AI.

Microsoft claps back at Salesforce — claims "100,000 organizations" had used Copilot Studio to create AI agents by October 2024

Microsoft has clapped back at Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff's comments downplaying its AI efforts. The company indicated over 100,000 organizations had used Copilot Studio to create agents by October 2024.

Bluesky adds TikTok mode while Elon mulls reviving Vine in the latest banning drama

Bluesky has a new video-only mode that's somewhat similar to TikTok. The new mode lets you swipe vertically to jump between videos, much like other popular video-focused social media apps.

Dynasty Warriors: Origins crushes as the largest debut in series history

It's also the second-biggest launch for any Koei Tecmo game on Steam.

Report: "Jazzed and spooked." Sam Altman and OpenAI will meet with the U.S. government to discuss "PhD-level" super AI that can conquer even the most complex human tasks.

PhD-grade AI is coming to replace humans in even the most complicated tasks, according to this new report.

Laffgaff

What river did Julius Caesar lead his army across in 49BC, starting a civil war?

The Rubicon.

Empty Tester Bottle

I was in a shop the other day, and there was an empty tester bottle of perfume with a sign saying "out of odor".

Itsfoss

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