The News - Thursday, 23 January 2025

BBC News

Trump comes out swinging in rapid start to presidency

He has made waves with dozens of actions that represent a substantial expansion of White House power, writes Anthony Zurcher.

EU 'could consider' UK joining pan-Europe customs area

The UK re-joining the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention is up for discussion in reset talks, says Maros Sefcovic.

Defunct funeral firm payments 'a slap in the face'

Tens of thousands of people are still owed money after Safe Hands fell into administration in 2022.

Thousands evacuated as new fast-growing fire ignites near Los Angeles

The out-of-control blaze has grown to more than 8,000 acres in just hours fuelled by winds.

Sneaky Britain? How our moral compasses are changing

Could the popularity of The Traitors link to something wider going on among Britons - and our shifting attitudes towards dishonesty?

'I had to get a credit card and overdraft after I lost Winter Fuel Payment'

Pensioners who lost winter fuel money after government changes tell the BBC the last few months have been a struggle.

PM vows to curb 'Nimby' legal blocks on infrastructure

The government wants to cut the number of legal challenges to infrastructure projects.

Search for suspect after 'serious assault' in Plymouth

Police say a man has been taken to hospital after being found injured in the city's West Hoe area.

Giant iceberg on crash course with island - penguins and seals in danger

More than twice the size of greater London, the expanse of ice is unpredictable and dangerous.

'They tied me to a bed' - China sees resurgence in medicating 'trouble-makers'

Student among dozens who challenged China’s authorities to have been sent to psychiatric units, BBC finds.

Dark humour for dark times: How comedy helps in Ukraine

Ukrainian stand-up comedians say humour can help people cope and raise money for the war effort.

Tina Turner's lost Private Dancer song rediscovered

The song, recorded for inclusion on Turner's hit album Private Dancer, was recently uncovered.

Harry's 'historic' court win and 'We can sea you, Vlad'

Thursday's headlines cover the Duke of Sussex's settlement and the spotting of a Russian spy ship.

Comeback queens, blockbusters and Succession stars: The Oscar nominations previewed

Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Kieran Culkin and Colman Domingo are among the stars in the running.

'We see you': UK warns Putin after Russian spy ship seen around British waters

John Healey says the vessel is used to gather intelligence and map the UK's underwater infrastrcuture.

Trump tells Putin to end 'ridiculous war' in Ukraine or face new sanctions

The US president says he is offering Moscow a "big favour" by helping Russia and Ukraine reach a deal.

Has Prince Harry got what he wanted after tabloid apology?

The settlement between the prince and the Sun's publisher is a dramatic, high stakes, turnaround.

Head teacher honours 'adored' boy, 12, killed in stabbing

Leo Ross, who was stabbed in Hall Green, Birmingham, was "funny and sweet", his head teacher says.

How red flags over Southport killer were repeatedly missed

A picture of the teenage killer's descent into violence has emerged since he carried out the murders.

Elephants are not people, US court rules

Judges ruled a bid to free five elderly African elephants from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo was based on a law that only applied to humans.

'Rudakubana took our lives too', parents of nine-year-old Alice say

The parents of girls murdered by Axel Rudakubana tell of their pain as their "souls are shattered".

Taxi dashcam shows Rudakubana in minutes before attack

Footage from a taxi captures Axel Rudakubana outside The Hart Space in Southport.

Rare red weather warning as Storm Éowyn poses danger to life

Eowyn could be the storm of the century for Ireland, with strong winds of up to 100mph forecast.

'A mockery': Trump's new meme-coin sparks anger in crypto world

The president's meme-coin launch is being criticised as a stunt, while impatience grows for deregulation.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves to soften non-dom tax changes

It comes after critics warned the plans could prompt wealthy people to leave the UK.

Musical about trans drug boss leads Oscar nominations

Netflix's Spanish-language Emilia Pérez has 13 nominations, followed by Wicked and The Brutalist.

Sainsbury's to cut 3,000 jobs and shut cafés and pizza counters

The changes are part of a cost-cutting plan, but recent tax rises for businesses have also been a factor.

Unpaid internship access 'unfair' to working class, students say

New research says internship opportunities increasingly favour those from a middle class background.

Russian ships return to Syrian base ahead of expected withdrawal

Analysts say the return suggests that Moscow is preparing to evacuate one of its most valuable overseas bases.

Adele thwarted sale of 'haunted' £6m house, owner claims

The award-winning singer rented the Grade II-listed home in West Sussex in 2012.

Harrowing crime has left officers struggling, lead detective says

Det Ch Insp Jason Pye speaks of the trauma faced by investigators in the case.

How red flags were repeatedly missed

A picture of the teenage killer's descent into violence has emerged since he carried out the murders.

Residents say atrocity has changed their town forever

Still picking up the pieces from the atrocity, residents of the town tell of their continued grief.

Sneaky Britain? How our moral compasses are changing

Could the popularity of The Traitors link to something wider going on among Britons - and our shifting attitudes towards dishonesty?

How to protect your home before, during and after a storm

The rain and high winds experienced during stormy weather can damage homes and business properties.

Could you pass an English exam from 1913?

Three teachers sat - and failed - the first Cambridge English exam 112 years ago. How would you do?

List of nominations in full for Oscars 2025

This year's list of Oscar nominees includes Emilia Pérez, Wicked and The Brutalist up for best picture.

'I had anti-government views so they treated me for schizophrenia'

Student among dozens who challenged China’s authorities to have been sent to psychiatric units, BBC finds.

Freed Capitol riot ringleaders regroup - and vow 'retribution'

Leaders of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys called for prosecutions of police, prosecutors and members of a congressional committee.

Reddit groups ban X links in protest at Musk arm gesture

Moderators of groups with millions of users say the block is a result of the billionaire's on-stage gesture.

Meta denies forcing users to follow Trump accounts

The Facebook and Instagram owner says the official profiles were updated to reflect the new position holders.

Surge in vomiting bug keeps pressure on hospitals in England

Norovirus cases are the highest they have been since January 2020.

UK leaves door open to joining EU trading scheme

It comes after the EU's trade chief says the UK could join a customs union as part of post-Brexit "reset".

Giant iceberg on crash course with island, putting penguins and seals in danger

More than twice the size of greater London, the expanse of ice is unpredictable and dangerous.

International court seeks arrest of Taliban leaders over treatment of women and girls

Karim Khan is seeking arrest warrants for the Taliban government's Supreme Leader and chief justice.

Major hunt for murder suspect police say could be armed and dangerous

Police are searching for Paul Antony Butler in connection with the death of a woman in the city.

Hamas attack survivor to represent Israel at Eurovision

The 25-year-old says music has been one of the most important parts of her healing process.

German frontrunner vows permanent border controls after knife attack

Friedrich Merz says he will close Germany's borders to irregular migrants, including those with a right to protection.

Bournemouth Echo

Drunk woman slashed pubgoer's neck with glass bottle over taxi dispute

A drunk woman slashed a pub-goer in the neck with a glass bottle over a taxi dispute, a court heard.

Daughter's tribute to her loving father who 'cheered everyone up'

A HEARTBROKEN daughter remembers her ‘loving’ and ‘amazing’ dad.

Killing of Tom Roberts raised in Commons over anti-terrorism probe

The killing of 21-year-old Tom Roberts in Bournemouth town centre has been raised in Parliament as calls are made to investigate the government’s anti-terror programme.

'Friendly' woman, 20, found dead at home

A 'talented musician' was sadly found dead at her home address in Blandford Forum, an inquest heard.

Beryl Bike services 'cheap and 'reliable', say residents

Beryl bikes have ended their services in Dorset due to low demand.

Firm that ditched Bournemouth denies move was due to failed expansion plans

A COMPANY that relocated its headquarters from Bournemouth has denied claims that the move was due to insufficient business expansion.

BCP Council denies ownership of abandoned land in Poole

Abandoned land in Poole left empty and unused for a decade is not owned by the council, officials have confirmed.

Beauty spot turned into a 'junkyard' with 'van lifers' blamed

Residents claim a beauty spot has turned into a ‘junkyard’ due to ‘van lifers’ making it their permanent home.

Former undertaker found dead in his Christchurch home

An inquest has opened into the death of a 36-year-old man who was found dead at his home address in Christchurch.

Swimmers delighted by 'icy and magical' water at championships

Two swimmers from BCP competed for Great Britain at the World Ice Swimming championships in Italy.

BCP Council apologises over 'data breach' by officer

BCP Council has apologised after a “data breach” from one of its officers.

New studio in Wimborne will offer aerial arts classes

Aerial Arts Dorset is opening their second location in Wimborne.

Bomb disposal teams called after possible explosive device found

Bomb disposal teams were called after a possible explosive device was found in Cranborne.

Highstreet unit 'under offer' from new business

SUPERDRUGS former site in Bournemouth town centre is “under offer” from a potential business.

'A strong event cannot be ruled out' - tornado warning issued amid Storm Eowyn

A level 2 warning was issued for Southern England, mainly for severe wind gusts with a few tornado events possible.

Train delays due to fault with train

There are delays to train services between Dorchester and Bournemouth due to a fault with a train.

WWE legend to appear in Bournemouth at wrestling event

It is one of many shows planned for this year, with the company claiming to be the UK's "most established wrestling company" having been around for more than 60 years.

'No sign of making Britain great again'

GEOFFREY Brooking’s description (Letters, January 20) of Sir Kier Starmer as “magnificent” reminds me of another great British failure: The Charge of the Light Brigade, led by Lord Cardigan. “Into the valley of Death rode the six hundred”.

6 pets from RSPCA Dorset who are on the lookout for their forever homes

The RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre in Ringwood, Dorset has many pets, such as cats and dogs, looking for new homes

Chilli festival to return to Dorset with 'largest selection' of hot sauces

The Great Dorset Chilli Festival is also hosting its annual Chilli Plant Growing Competition.

Bournemouth MP backs 'safe leave' for domestic abuse victims

Mr Hayes, who led domestic abuse services as a CEO for five years before being elected six months ago, is passionate about standing up for survivors.

Students become 'Resilience Reps' in mental health initiative

Students across Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth have been participating in wellbeing workshops.

Poole based manufacturing firm appoints new head of development

Mr Osmond has more than 27 years of experience in the industry, having previously served as director of MSA Manufacturing Limited.

PJ Harvey 'honoured' by award celebrating her Dorset roots

Music icon PJ Harvey has acknowledged the role of Dorset’s music scene in shaping her career.

Bingo event with a twist to be held on Bournemouth Pier

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best 80s outfits, with shell suits, leg warmers and big hair all welcome.

MP praises charity's 'brilliant barbershop' for vulnerable

Once a month, the church also becomes a barbershop, providing free haircuts to those experiencing homelessness or poverty.

Rugby fans invited to watch Six Nations matches live at BIC

Street food, including hot dogs, nachos and pizzas, will be available, alongside a fully stocked bar.

Christchurch Quay to host 'spectacular' VE Day anniversary event

It is part of nationwide commemorations honouring the end of World War II in Europe.

Packed programme of events at leading venues in Bournemouth

Headliners include Ricky Gervais, Gary Barlow, Wet Wet Wet, Alison Moyet, Craig David, Paddy McGuinness, Sean Paul, Scissor Sisters and Sophie Ellis-Bextor.

Bournemouth music festival rebranded ahead of 100th anniversary

The festival, which is nearing its 100th anniversary, features drama, dance, music and choral performances.

Dorset care homes to host free dementia advice events

Both homes will host a 'Dementia Café', providing a safe, friendly space for individuals affected by dementia, their families and caregivers.

Schools receive reading benches crafted by apprentices

"The bench is a perfect opportunity to take a seat and read a few pages alongside friends from one of the many different books they have to choose from."

Tina Turner tribute show coming to Bournemouth

A Tina Turner tribute show is set to return to Bournemouth.

Christchurch fitness club marks anniversary

It is also part of the national Exercise Referral Programme, where patients can be referred by their GP or clinic.

Residents plan demonstration over 'vital' railway crossing

Edward Fox OBE and Vikki Slade MP have been invited to speak at the protest.

All-female panel announced for mental resilience event

The first event will feature an all-female panel in honour of International Women's Day.

Child-killer Axel Rudakubana sentenced to 52 years following Southport murders

Axel Rudakubana has been sentenced at Liverpool Crown Court following the murders of three girls at a Taylor Swift dance class in Southport.

Government

Consular Assistance (Journalists) Bill

A Bill to make provision for a right to consular assistance for British journalists abroad who have been detained or held hostage; and for connected purposes.

Elections (accessibility for blind voters) Bill

A Bill to require the provision of audio and tactile measures at polling stations for the purpose of enabling blind voters to vote independently and in secret; to require the Secretary of State to take steps to identify, develop and implement new accessible voting solutions for blind voters; to require the Secretary of State to undertake a review of the arrangements for postal voting in respect of accessibility for blind voters and to implement any recommendations of that review; and for connected purposes;

Formula 1

'One of the best feelings of my life' – Hamilton reflects on 'special' first Ferrari drive

Lewis Hamilton has been sharing his emotions after getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car for the first time, with the seven-time World Champion hailing the experience as “one of the best feelings of my life”.

WATCH: Tech Talk Retro – How some of the most iconic cars in F1 history changed the sport

With the start of the 2025 season fast approaching, the F1 teams will be soon be revealing their 2025 cars to the world, each hoping that their challenger might one day earn a place amongst the most influential cars in the sport’s history. But which cars from Formula 1’s past have already achieved this feat? Well, F1 TV’s Sam Collins, Craig Scarborough and Albert Fabrega are back to answer that question in a new series of Tech Talk Retro, as they go back in time to rememorate some of F1’s most iconic cars and how they changed the sport.

From high-profile flash points to record-breaking success – Verstappen's 10 seasons in F1 ranked

Four world titles, 63 Grand Prix wins, 112 podiums – Max Verstappen’s F1 career has been nothing short of exceptional. But which of his 10 F1 seasons do we rank as the best?

Who are the 2025 F1 team principals?

With only two out of 10 teams running an unchanged driver line-up in 2025, all eyes will be on how these moves play out when the season begins – but this isn’t the only area where there have been some changes, as some outfits on the grid will also welcome a new team principal. Here is all you need to know about the 2025 team principals for each squad, with the full list at the bottom of the page.

F1 to collaborate with Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay for F1 Garage

Formula 1 has partnered with multiple Michelin-starred chef, and long-time friend of the sport, Gordon Ramsay to deliver a world-class culinary experience in the Paddock’s most premium hospitality, F1 Garage.

Lawson reveals the one driver who 'deserves an F1 seat right now'

Liam Lawson believes that former F2 champion Felipe Drugovich is the driver who especially deserves a seat in Formula 1 right now, with the Brazilian having been on the sidelines whilst acting as a test and reserve driver for Aston Martin during recent years.

Windows Central

Dragon Age: The Veilguard pulled in 1.5 million players but still missed EA sales expectations by nearly half

Dragon Age: The Veilguard grabbed 1.5 million players but still missed EA's sales expectations by almost 50%.

How to watch the Xbox Developer_Direct 2025: Start time, what to expect, and everything you need to know

Hoping to watch the Xbox Developer_Direct 2025 show? Here's how you can, along with everything else you need to know about the show.

Get ready for upcoming Xbox RPG Avowed with this handy primer from developer Obsidian Entertainment

Obsidian Entertainment is sharing a five-part video series to prep players for Avowed, a game set in the world of Eora, the same as Pillars of Eternity.

How to get the most out of Sticky Notes on Windows 11

On Windows 11, you can use Sticky Notes to create virtual notes on your desktop. If you have never used it before, you can check out this guide to learn the steps to get it, manage it, and get the most out of it.

I'm aghast, stunned, and flabbergasted that Microsoft just removed the thesaurus from Word

Microsoft removed Smart Lookup from Word recently, meaning you can no longer use the feature to search for synonyms or definitions.

Samsung Galaxy S25 features leak ahead of Unpacked 2025 with Agentic AI taking center stage

Veteran tipster Evan Blass recently revealed some information about the upcoming lineup of Samsung phones, including a new Night mode for videos, Audio Eraser, and revamped Google Gemini.

The hotly anticipated NASCAR 25 game from iRacing will feature a new series for the first time ever

iRacing has announced that the ARCA Menards series will be joining the new NASCAR game for the very first time.

NVIDIA’s RTX 5090 launch could be the worst ever — can AMD capitalize?

New rumors have emerged detailing RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 stock shortages at major retailers just a week ahead of the official launch. With AMD waiting in the wings with its RDNA 4 GPUs until March, the extra time to build up stock could pay off.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff claims Microsoft won't use OpenAI in the future — Microsoft already admitted GPT-4 is too expensive and isn't fast enough to meet consumer needs

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff claims Microsoft won't use OpenAI in the future, following the announcement of the $500 billion Stargate project to build AI infrastructure for the ChatGPT maker's cloud computing needs.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 closes out December as the best-selling game of 2024 in the US

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 closes out 2024 as the best-selling game of the year in the U.S.

Square Enix confirms the story of the 'Final Fantasy 7 Remake' part 3 is complete, and once again hints that it's dropping PlayStation exclusivity

Square Enix has recently announced the development third part of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy is progressing smoothly and has hinted that it may launch on platforms beyond PlayStation.

Massive Microsoft account security change almost snuck out without enough warning

Microsoft accounts will now remain signed in automatically within a web browser. People should remember to sign out upon exit or use private browser to remain secure on a public or shared PC.

AMD VP says the delayed Radeon 9000 GPU launch is about "taking a little extra time to optimize the software stack for maximum performance."

Where are the next-gen Radeon 9000 GPUs? AMD is taking its time to leak out details after a pulled CES presentation, and AMD's David McAfee most recently stated that the company is improving software and adding FSR 4 compatibility while we await the planned March 2025 launch.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 review: A higher price matches the extra performance in this gorgeous GPU redesign

The RTX 5090 FE sees a bump of +25% MSRP for around +30% performance and a gorgeous GPU redesign, but even if you find one, does anyone really need it?

Capcom reveals major gameplay changes for Monster Hunter Wilds, one of which addresses the only problem I had with Monster Hunter World

Capcom has revealed to IGN several gameplay changes Monster Hunter Wilds is bringing that may address criticisms its predecessors had.

Palworld creators announce new publishing company—with a horror game as first project

Pocketpair Publishing was just unveiled by the creators of Palworld and Craftopia, with a pledge to help bring us more fun indie games.

You can play Diablo 4 and the expansion for free right now — but there's a catch

Blizzard is pulling out all the stops to bring players to Diablo 4 as Season 7 kicks off. Right now you can play the game for free up to level 25, and there's a huge 40% off the expansion bundle.

Laffgaff

During what war did China cede Hong Kong to Great Britain?

The First Opium War.

Cheap Trampolines

I saw a sticker in the sports shop saying "Trampolines Half Price". I jumped on the offer.

Itsfoss

21 Jargon Every Linux User Should Know

Even if you don't know Linux well enough, you should know these common terms to blend in ;)

FOSS Weekly #25.04: Must-know Jargon, Kernel 6.13 Released, Mint 22.1, WINE 10 and More Linux Stuff

Mint 22.1 upgrade is now rolling out