BBC News
Zelensky says no peace deal without Ukraine involvement
Ukraine's president says he will not be shut out of peace negotiations after Trump says he agreed to start talks with Putin.
Bowen: Zelensky forced to face tough new reality after Trump-Putin phone call
Many world leaders, including Ukraine's President Zelensky, are finding the world is more uncertain under new US leadership.
Starved, threatened and abused: Parents of freed Hamas hostages give details of ordeal
The BBC hears from the parents of four young women who were taken by Hamas on 7 October 2023 and held for 15 months.
'Mould, damp and decay': Homes excluded from insulation scandal help
Help to fix unsuitable insulation under government schemes only applies to work done since 2022.
Watch moment man is swallowed by humpback whale
Dell Simancas captures the moment his son, Adrián, is swallowed and spat out by a humpback whale.
Modi hails US-India 'mega partnership' in Trump meeting
Trump and Modi, who share warm personal ties, met in the shadow of trade tensions complicating US-India relations.
Dating apps could be in trouble – here's what might take their place
For some Gen Zs, meeting online through shared hobbies is an alternative to the tyranny of the swipe.
Watch: Clive Myrie finds corridors filled with patients at London hospital
Clive Myrie spends a day inside the Royal Free Hospital to see how the NHS is coping after intense, annual winter pressures.
Inside the Royal Free - what it tells us about the NHS
From frustrated staff and ageing equipment to life-saving care, what life on the frontline is like.
TikTok returns to Apple and Google app stores in the US
TikTok is again available on app stores in the US after President Donald Trump delayed a ban on the app.
Robert Pattinson: Being a dad makes life 'more fun'
The actor, who is now starring in Mickey 17, welcomed his first child with Suki Waterhouse last March.
What we know about suspected car attack in Munich
A 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker drove at a group of people and injured at least 28, German police say.
Leaders set for key security meeting as 'old' world order at risk of crumbling
The BBC's Frank Gardner says Nato's unity is badly dented with decisions over Ukraine set to be discussed in Munich.
Questions raised over Rachel Reeves's CV and expenses
The BBC has established the Chancellor left the Bank of England nine months earlier than she states in her LinkedIn profile.
The Chancellor and her expenses before she became an MP
BBC News has learnt that there was an expenses investigation into Rachel Reeves, and two other senior managers, when she worked at HBOS.
The Papers: 'Don't let Putin win' and 'King's trip to charm Trump'
The papers are still mostly leading with Trump and Putin's pledge to begin negotiations to end the Ukraine war.
Weekly quiz: Who did Monty beat to win the top US dog show?
How much attention did you pay to what has been going on in the world over the past seven days?
'Steroids gave me heart failure at 30 and I could die early'
A bodybuilder and steroid user warns against taking the muscle-building drug.
Beyoncé fans braced for ticket rush - and high prices
Tickets for Beyoncé's latest UK dates go on general sale on Friday, with prices reaching up to £950.
What is Doge and why is Musk cutting so many jobs?
US President Donald Trump’s new agency is tasked with slashing costs - but faces opposition.
Trump launches plan to target countries with new tariffs
The US president ordered his staff to develop a response to countries with trade policies he says are unfair.
Family of fatally shot man 'will never have answers'
Marius Ciolac's sister spoke to the BBC following the conclusion of his inquest.
Soldier 'manipulated by suicide threat', inquest told
An inquest is told Jaysley Beck did not complain about a colleague over fears for his mental health.
Homicide probe after British woman shot in USA
Lucy Harrison, from Warrington, was killed at the home of her father in Prosper, Texas.
Suspect in Christmas cake poisoning found dead in jail cell
The Brazilian woman had been accused of murdering three members of her husband's family on Christmas Eve.
US Senate narrowly confirms RFK Jr as health secretary
Kennedy will oversee the US health industry including food safety, pharmaceuticals and vaccinations.
Hamas releases names of hostages due for release on Saturday
They are set to be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
Murdered backpacker's mum says killer stole her future
Danielle McLaughlin, 28, from County Donegal, was found dead in a field in India, in March 2017.
No concerns raised with me about my expenses, says Reeves
The BBC found the chancellor was the subject of an expenses investigation while she worked at a bank.
Trump tariff VAT threat raises fears of hit to UK
The surprise inclusion of VAT to calculate tariffs prompts questions over the possible impact on British businesses.
'I felt a slimy texture brush my face': Man describes being eaten by whale
Adrián Simancas, 23, was kayaking off Chilean Patagonia when he found himself inside a whale.
Babies born in 2023 can expect to live longer, new figures show
Boys born in the UK in 2023 can expect to live on average to 86.7 years, and girls to 90, experts suggest.
Uber and Bolt drivers strike on Valentine's Day
Thousands of drivers are taking part in the strike action over pay and working conditions, a union says.
Gaza plans put Egypt-US relations to tough test
After decades of close ties, what happens to Gaza could put Egypt-US friendship at risk.
Cover up or pay a fine, Portugal's Albufeira warns
Wearing bikinis and going shirtless may soon be banned in the city, as it fights against badly behaved tourists.
Call for parents to be able to use loyalty card points to buy baby milk
Parents should be able to use vouchers, the regulator says, but restrictions on discounts should remain.
Starmer backs Ukraine's Nato bid despite US view
The PM reaffirms the UK supports Ukraine's "irreversible path" to joining NATO in a call with Volodymyr Zelensky.
Jeremy Bowen: Zelensky is being forced to face a tough new reality
Many world leaders, including Ukraine's President Zelensky, are finding the world is more uncertain under new US leadership.
Trump wants peace. Ukrainians fear what that might look like
Trump and Putin want to make a deal. But Ukrainians question how life after a ceasefire will work.
Chernobyl radiation shield hit by Russian drone, Ukraine says
There has been no increase in radiation levels at the plant, Ukraine's president says.
Dating apps could be in trouble – here's what might take their place
For some Gen Zs, meeting online through shared hobbies is an alternative to the tyranny of the swipe.
YouTube at 20: Fame has made life easier, says Charlie Bit Me star
From Baby Shark, the Harlem Shake and Gangnam Style, the online site has been part of our lives for 20 years.
Moment 80 couples renew vows on Valentine's Day
Couples of all ages renew their vows in a special Valentine's Day ceremony at Coventry Cathedral.
Weekly quiz: Who did Monty beat to win the top US dog show?
How much attention did you pay to what has been going on in the world over the past seven days?
'Steroids gave me heart failure at 30 and I could die early'
A bodybuilder and steroid user warns against taking the muscle-building drug.
Pope to be admitted to hospital for bronchitis
The Pope has had bronchitis symptoms for several days leading to other officials reading his speeches.
'Where's my apology from MI5?' asks victim of abusive neo-Nazi agent
The woman’s demand follows MI5’s admission it gave false evidence in her human rights case.
Japanese woman arrested for squashing bun in shop
Police arrested her for "criminal damage" as the bun did not regain its shape and could not be sold.
Man cons council out of £710k in 'Greggs' swindle
Aftab Baig pretended to be a property manager from Greggs to con Leeds City Council, a court hears.
Residents excluded from scheme to fix 'catastrophic' home insulation
Help to fix unsuitable insulation under government schemes only applies to work done since 2022.
Beyoncé ticket sale runs smoothly, to fans' surprise
Tickets for Beyoncé's latest UK dates go on general sale on Friday, with prices reaching up to £950.
Presenter Yvette Fielding 'thrilled' to own Eric Morecambe's desk after auction
TV presenter Yvette Fielding said she burst into tears when she won the bid for Eric Morecambe's desk.
Bournemouth Echo
Man feared he’d be stabbed after robber held screwdriver to neck
A man feared that he would be stabbed after a robber held a screwdriver to his neck during an assault outside BH2 leisure complex.
Pitchforks, arrests and anarchy: Councillors anger at new Labour government
THE Labour government came under strong criticism from councillors debating BCP Council’s 2025/26 budget.
Main road to close for two days during resurfacing work
A main road will be closed for two days while resurfacing work is carried out.
Growing number of fast food outlets in BCP is 'infuriating'
A growing number of fast food outlets are appearing in Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole, figures have revealed.
Part of Dolphin centre closed after inspections find unstable concrete in roof
Staff have been removed from the Dolphin centre over safety fears after unstable concrete was found in part of the building’s structure.
In The Dock: Thug beat man in Waitrose hate attack
The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:
Bournemouth man on track to perform at Eurovision 2025
A Bournemouth man and his band are on track to represent Germany at Eurovision.
Bournemouth carer, 64, bike stolen outside the house during his shift
A care home worker is ‘heartbroken’ after his electric bike was stolen while he was working.
Residents feel "helpless" as they face another parking loss
The rear car park at Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre in Christchurch will be closing to the public.
Sports bar looking to add new outdoor seating area
A Bournemouth town centre sports bar has applied to have a new outdoor seating area.
Extra storey could be added to plans for apartments
AN EXTRA floor could be added to previously approved plans for the demolition of a 1950s Canford Cliffs property – replacing it with seven apartments.
Family-friendly music festival returning for 10th year
A popular Dorset festival bringing together ‘good people, great music, delicious food and cider,’ is returning
'Hardly joined up thinking'
JOHN Cowan was spot on in his description of our beloved council's inability to stop digging when already in a hole (letter, February 11).
Mirabeau announced as brand partner for Sandbanks event
Maison Mirabeau’s legacy is one of dedication and passion for Provence’s esteemed rosé wines.
Groups to work together to boost tourism in Dorset
Two tourism industry groups are to work together with the aim of further boosting visitors to the county.
Cherries and Saints in blue in cup clash from a bygone era
A crowd of more than 22,000, including 7,000 Bournemouth supporters, witnessed the game at The Dell.
Swaying into the past on Canford's enchanting suspension bridge
This isn't your grand, sweeping suspension bridge, but a more intimate affair, a slender pathway suspended in time.
Former RAF nursing officer celebrates 100th birthday
A former RAF nursing officer celebrated her 100th birthday with a surprise visit from three serving military nurses.
Dorset businesses can apply for up to £40k in funding
Businesses can apply for grants ranging from £5,000 to £40,000 to cover up to half the total cost of a project.
Justin Fletcher to bring 'rocktastic' show to town
Justin Fletcher will bring his rock-themed family show, Justin Live – Just Time To Rock, to Lighthouse, featuring music, comedy and audience participation.
Business named one of the top 100 SMEs in the UK
Laceeze, founded by Emma Burke and featured on Dragon's Den, ranked 33rd in the Elite Business 100, recognized for its impact on children's grassroots sport.
Dorset cat celebrates 21st birthday equivalent to 100 human years
Marlee, a 21-year-old Dorset cat—equivalent to 100 in human years—celebrated her milestone with Hillside Veterinary Centre, where she’s been a patient for a decade.
Golf club greenkeeper to run first marathon in London
Greg Compton, a Parkstone Golf Club greenkeeper, will run his first London Marathon in 2025 after years of spectating and multiple entry attempts.
New resident at retirement complex sets up two clubs
Simon Collins, a resident at McCarthy Stone's Stour Gate in Blandford St Mary, has started a card games club and jigsaw society for fellow retirees.
Half term fun this February
Half term fun this February
Poole care home rated 'good' by Care Quality Commission
Residents and families also spoke highly of the care provided.
Poole shopping centre to give out exclusive discounts and freebies
Each card will entitle the recipient to a free item or discount at a specific store.
Museum's flower campaign to support Dementia Action Week
The Museum of East Dorset is supporting Dementia Action Week by inviting crocheters and knitters to create woollen Forget-Me-Not flowers for the Alzheimer's Society campaign.
Dark comedy set in a school to premiere at Lighthouse
Dark comedy Pot Licker by Ed Viney will premiere at Lighthouse Poole before touring, after gaining momentum at its PIPELINE script-in-hand showcase.
Amy Winehouse's band to perform at town concert hall
The Amy Winehouse Band, led by her former musical director Dale Davis, will perform with an orchestra at Lighthouse Poole.
Road blocked after crash involving a pedestrian
Emergency services are at the scene of a crash involving a pedestrian.
Road blocked following crash on A31
Road blocked and queueing traffic due to crash on A338 both ways at A31 Ringwood Road (Ashley Heath Interchange).
Ringwood Road to reopen week ahead of schedule
RINGWOOD Road will reopen at the double mini roundabouts this evening a week ahead of schedule.
Colten Care homes across Dorset celebrate Valentine's Day
At Amberwood House in Ferndown, the celebrations took on an intergenerational aspect, as the children of staff members presented roses to residents.
Trains cancelled to Southampton game this weekend
Cherries fans will have to find a way other than on the train to this weekend’s game against Southampton FC.
Drivers warned having a dog in your car could result in £5,000 fines
Being in breach of this can see drivers facing on the spot fines of up to £1,000, a maximum fine of £5,000, nine points on their licence and even a driving ban
Formula 1
LIVESTREAM: Watch all the action from Round 8 of the 2025 F1 Sim Racing World Championship at COTA
It’s time for Round 8 of the 2025 F1 Sim Racing World Championship, with the drivers gearing up to race at the Circuit of The Americas to conclude Event 2 of the season.
From an infamous contract dispute to a switch prevented by injury – 8 F1 driver moves that never were
The idea of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari was for many years a seemingly fanciful prospect – until it actually happened, with the long-speculated link-up finally taking effect this year as the seven-time World Champion embarks on a new chapter away from Mercedes. There are other much-hyped driver moves, however, that never came to be, despite some coming incredibly close to happening. We’ve been taking a look back at just a few of these switches that never occurred, from the big names that missed out on joining the Scuderia through to the surprise candidates who nearly partnered with the Silver Arrows…
TECH ANALYSIS: The gains Williams are targeting with the new FW47
The Williams FW47 appears to be a straightforward evolution of its predecessor. Visually, the most notable change is to the sidepod shape in profile, with a more progressive, less abrupt ramp-down towards the rear.
INSIGHT: How F1 TV’s ever-evolving presenter, pundit and production team take fans to the heart of the action
Formula 1 drivers thrill fans 24 weekends of the year through their spectacular skills, heart-stopping wheel-to-wheel battles and relentless quests for glory. But none of these moments would be captured, analysed or written into the history books without the broadcasters who follow them every step of the way, including F1’s very own offering: F1 TV. In a world of constantly developing technology and growing fan expectation, we hear from some of the operation’s presenters, pundits and producers for a behind-the-scenes account of what it takes to tell the sport’s story to the world…
5 things to look out for at the F1 75 Live season launch event
We are now just days away from F1 75 Live, the spectacular season launch taking place at London’s The O2 on February 18. The unprecedented event will see all 10 teams – along with their respective drivers and team principals – come together to unveil their liveries for the campaign and kick off the season in style. There will be plenty of entertainment in store across the evening, and we’ve rounded up five things in particular to look out for…
Mercedes to support restoration of biodiverse forest through Chestnut Carbon collaboration
Mercedes’ Formula 1 team have joined forces with nature-based carbon developer Chestnut Carbon to support high-quality carbon removal projects across the Southeastern United States.
Norris, Piastri and a new weapon in the armoury – McLaren are going into 2025 with a ‘swagger’
McLaren proved last year that they could deliver a sustained tilt at the title by overhauling Red Bull to win their first constructors’ championship since 1998.
Couple celebrate engagement after unique F1-themed proposal with personalised chequered flag gift
A motorsport-loving couple are celebrating their engagement this Valentine’s Day after the groom staged a unique F1-themed proposal featuring a very special gift.
GALLERY: Check out more angles of Williams’ new FW47 challenger
Williams have become the second team to show off their 2025 Formula 1 car via a special launch at the Silverstone circuit on Friday morning.
Piastri insists ‘I can be World Champion’ as he expands on rules of engagement with Norris for 2025
Oscar Piastri is confident that he can potentially become World Champion in 2025, with the McLaren driver also feeling assured that he and team mate Lando Norris are “crystal clear” on their rules of engagement entering into the season.
FIRST LOOK: Williams unveil new 2025 car as FW47 breaks cover at Silverstone
Williams have revealed their new 2025 F1 car to the world, with the FW47 making its debut during a promotional event at Silverstone in a bespoke one-off livery.
Ronhaar wins Round 8 of F1 Sim Racing World Championship as Event 2 concludes
KICK F1 Sim Racing Team’s Thomas Ronhaar came out on top during Thursday’s F1 Sim Racing World Championship action around the Circuit of The Americas.
Windows Central
Monster Hunter Wilds is already having a discount ahead of launch – Here's where you can hunt for Capcom's biggest game of 2025 at a cheaper price
Monster Hunter Wilds is nearly here yet the PC version is already receiving discounts on pre-orders as it is currently 16% off at GreenManGaming
Oh Liberty: Helldivers 2 just lost Angel's Venture to the Illuminate and the Meridia black hole, and now the aliens are sending it right at Super Earth
Despite valiant defensive efforts from Helldivers 2 players, the Meridia black hole has destroyed Angel's Venture — and the Illuminate is setting its sights on other planets next.
Microsoft confirms it will change name of Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on Bing Maps (Update)
Bing Maps will rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. Apple Maps and Google Maps did the same recently.
Avowed review and Metacritic roundup — Here's what critics are saying about the new Xbox RPG
The reviews are in for Obsidian Entertainment's Avowed, so here's what critics think of the latest Xbox RPG.
STALKER 2 just got a huge Patch 1.2 update with over 1,700 fixes, a new attack for one of its scariest mutants, and more
STALKER 2 Patch 1.2, the first big 2025 update for the game, is officially out now. Here's a look at all the highlights from the patch notes.
Here are all of Avowed's known bugs and glitches that we've identified, along with some potential fixes
Here are all the known bugs and glitches that we've identified, along with some potential fixes.
Avowed: All Ancient Memory locations
The Living Lands are brimming with discoveries and memories of past lives. Here's where you can pick up all the Ancient Memories in Avowed.
Avowed PSA: Keep your pre-completion save files in case Obsidian's Xbox RPG gets DLC or expansions
When playing Avowed, keep your pre-completion save files before hitting the endgame in case of future DLC or expansions.
Can I play Avowed on Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and other gaming handhelds?
Avowed runs pretty well on ROG Ally as long as you're playing at the right settings. But you won't want to play on Steam Deck.
Avowed Treasure Maps guide: Where to find and solve every clue
This Avowed treasure map guide covers everything you need to know to solve the treasure maps in Avowed, including where to find them, how to find the locations they point to, and what rewards you'll get.
Avowed guide: Should you free Ilora from the prison?
Avowed has a bunch of decisions for you to make, and you'll have to choose whether or not to free Ilora from the prison.
Avowed: Tips and tricks to manage your essence
Playing a spellcaster in Avowed? You'll need Essence and lot's of it, here's our tips and tricks to managing this mana-like resource.
Avowed Dawntreader guide — Should I put the Splinter of Eothas relic in the Oracle's statue?
The Eothian Oracle, Sargamis, wants you to put the Splinter of Eothas relic into his statue. Here's what happens if you do that.
Avowed Memory of the Deep guide — Should I give the Meteorite to Josep or the Giftbearer?
After finding the Meteorite in Avowed, you have the choice of giving it to two people, but who should you give it to?
Avowed: 7 things I wish I knew before I started playing
Here's a list of the most important things every player should know before traveling the Living Lands.
Avowed: Should I have Inquisitor Lödwyn destroy the ruins or have Ryngrim cut off the Adra?
What happens when you let Lödwyn destroy the ruins in Avowed? Should you let Ryngrim cut off the Adra instead?
Avowed guide: Should you make a deal with the mysterious voice?
You'll encounter a mysterious voice in Avowed that wants to make a deal, but should you accept it?
Avowed: How to switch from first-person to third-person perspective
Here's how to swap to your favorite viewpoint on the fly.
Xbox Cloud saves on Steam? Avowed continues new trend for Microsoft games
Avowed is breaking new ground with cross-save functionality across Xbox and Steam, letting you seamlessly continue your journey no matter where you play.
Microsoft just made Windows 10 worse, and there's (almost) nothing you can do about it
The new Outlook is being forced onto Windows 10 PCs through the latest security update.
Intel stock soars almost 25% in one week after JD Vance' new comments on the chip maker's AI future, as the US and UK refuse to sign the Paris AI summit's regulation decree
Intel has struggled to find its footing in a silicon landscape dominated by NVIDIA, but the Trump administration's "America first" approach might have thrown the chip maker a big lifeline.
Avowed already supports NVIDIA DLSS 4 features at launch, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle adding support next week
Obsidian's Avowed supports NVIDIA DLSS 4 override technology at launch, and MachineGames' Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is getting support next week.
If you want to play Avowed today, CDKeys already have a crazy deal on the Premium Edition
Avowed, Obsidian’s highly anticipated fantasy RPG, officially launches on February 18, but fans can jump into Early Access today by purchasing the Premium Edition for a discount at CDKeys.
WWE 2K25's The Island Mode gameplay has been revealed by 2K and WWE's Paul Heyman
2K has unveiled a new WWE 2k25 gameplay trailer and press release deep dive into its Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 exclusive, The Island mode.
Lies of P, one of my favorite Xbox Soulslikes, has finally revealed its DLC expansion, and it's inbound for Summer 2025
NEOWIZ has just announced Lies of P: Overture, a prequel DLC expansion for its critically acclaimed Soulslike action-RPG, Lies of P, and it will be released during the Summer of 2025.
WWE 2K25 preorder bonuses explained for special editions and where to buy them
WWE 2K25 will be released soon and preorders for the game have gone live. Here is our guide on how to WWE 2k25 and see which version is right for you.
Microsoft's 'Avowed' advanced access inexplicably skips Xbox Cloud Gaming in favor of NVIDIA GeForce Now, putting Xbox customers last
If you paid the extra $10 for early access to Avowed and $20 per month for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you may find that Microsoft prefers your custom on NVIDIA GeForce Now instead.
PowerToys will soon have native integration with the best Windows 11 tool you should be using
PowerToys and Windows Package Manager (winget) are two of the best Windows 11 tools, and they're getting closer integration.
Tomb Raider: Angel of Darkness Remastered is what happens when you restore an unfinished PS2 disaster
Tomb Raider AoD Remastered is the best attempt I’ve seen yet at fixing this (famously) unfinished PS2 classic. However, it’s not perfect.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle grabs three wins at the 28th D.I.C.E. awards — but Astro Bot wins Game of the Year
Bethesda Softworks and MachineGames' Indiana Jones and the Great Circle won three nominations at the 28th D.I.C.E. awards, but Astro Bot won Game of the Year.
7 of the best co-op games to play with your Player 2 on Valentine's Day
Skip the cringy rom coms, play one of these games with your partner instead.
After skipping Xbox for 20 years, a major Japanese studio returns with the reveal of their latest RPG which looks like 'Animal Crossing' with multiplayer combat
Level 5 hasn't worked with Xbox since the cancellation of "True Fantasy Live Online" some two decades ago. With Xbox's renewed effort to court developers from across the world, Level 5 has returned with "Fantasy Life i."
My favorite free video editor just got a big update, and the difference is night and day
The default video editor on Windows 11 now has a cleaner interface, timestamps, and new AI features.
The Lenovo Legion Go S is a frustrating disappointment, but SteamOS could save this handheld
Lenovo's Legion Go S handheld boasts beautiful hardware and grand promises, but its performance and battery life lead to nothing but disappointment at this price.
How to limit users storage usage with Disk Quotas on Windows 11 (and 10)
On Windows 11, you can use the Disk Quotas feature to set the amount of storage each user can use on your computer, and in this guide, I will explain how.
Laffgaff
Which artist designed the logo for Chupa Chups?
Salvador Dali.
Wireless Bra
Funny Wireless Bra Joke I just saw an ad for a wireless bra. I gotta be honest, I never even knew they needed to be plugged in.