BBC News
Ukraine official says minerals deal agreed with US
Donald Trump says the deal would give Ukraine "the right to fight on" in its war with Russia.
Starmer prepares to meet Trump after raising defence spending
The PM will head to Washington a day after announcing military budgets would rise to 2.5% of national income by 2027.
BP to slash green investment and ramp up gas and oil
The energy giant will announce its strategy later after rivals also rowed back on green energy plans.
Half of homes need heat pump by 2040, government told
The UK's greenhouse gas emissions should fall to 13% of 1990 levels by 2040, government advisors say.
The disturbing internet history of a triple killer
Websites visited and videos posted by Nicholas Prosper show some alarming obsessions.
Couple's trauma after body placed next to them on flight
Cabin crew placed the body of a passenger who died mid-flight in an empty seat beside the pair.
Charli XCX named Brits songwriter of the year
The honour is revealed ahead of Saturday's main ceremony, where the star is up for five more prizes.
Tesla shares slump after European sales fall
Shares in the US electric carmaker dropped after European sales halved in January.
Michelle Mone PPE firm evidence to be heard in private
Covid inquiry says hearings into the firm, led by Michelle Mone's husband, must be held in closed session.
Myanmar villagers reveal 'desperate' illegal kidney sales
Two Burmese men tell the BBC they used forged documents and middlemen to undergo surgery in India.
Brain surgery took my childhood memories - will new op make me forget my fiance?
A devastating side effect made Weronkia Somerville lose 14 years of her life, and then she discovered she had to go through it again.
Criminal gangs ruining environment, says watchdog
Authorities say this is not fly tipping, but "organised crime" with waste being illegally dumped.
Chris Mason: PM upends Labour manifesto to confront Europe's new reality
Sir Keir Starmer's meeting with the US president comes at a pivotal moment for Europe, our political editor writes.
Can Europe still count on the US coming to its defence?
Trump has engaged Putin and hinted the US may not defend European allies, causing alarm about Nato's future.
The papers: UK ramps up defence budget and Europe's 'fight for peace'
The government's increase in defence spending and developments between Ukraine and the US dominate Wednesday's papers.
James Landale: Will Starmer's defence hike win over Trump?
The prime minister has set out plans to increase defence spending to 2.5% of national income by 2027.
'We are still at war': Syria's Kurds battle Turkey months after Assad's fall
As Syria's interim leader plans its future, Kurds in the north-east are battling Turkish-backed forces.
The seven bills due to go up in April
A number of bill rises will come into force at the start of what some commentators have described as "awful April".
Thousands of Canadians sign petition to revoke Musk's citizenship
The petition accuses Musk of acting against Canada's national interest and undermining its sovereignty, but has no legal force.
Minister backs expansion of airports as Gatwick decision looms
A decision is expected later this week on whether Gatwick airport has won permission to expand its operations.
Met did not try to find missing children - report
The Met has improved how it tackles child exploitation but more needs to be done, a report says.
Apple boss says its diversity programmes may change
His comments came as shareholders rejected a call for the firm to consider ending its diversity practices.
American loses UK appeal to become legally non-binary
Lord Justice Singh says the issue is "better suited to resolution in Parliament than the courts".
Seven planets to be visible in night sky for last time until 2040
The best chance to see as many as possible will be after sunset on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
BBC sorry for 'missed opportunities' over DJ Tim Westwood's 'bullying behaviour'
A report into what the BBC knew about DJ's conduct found it was "too deferential to high-profile individuals".
What we know about US-Ukraine minerals deal
A Ukrainian official says Kyiv has agreed to the terms of a deal which would give the US access to mineral deposits.
Seven organisations to be investigated over Grenfell fire
All 58 recommendations of the Grenfell Tower public inquiry will be enacted, government says.
Starmer and Badenoch clash over defence spending at PMQs
The prime minister announced the UK will reallocate aid funds to boost military spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027.
Going For Gold presenter Henry Kelly dies at 78
He presented shows including Game For A Laugh and Going For Gold, and fronted several radio programmes.
12 things we spotted in the Oscars class photo
Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Demi Moore and Timothée Chalamet were among the actors smiling for the camera.
Prince and Princess of Wales take on Welsh cake-making challenge
The Prince and Princess of Wales also went to Pontypridd to learn how the community is dealing with floods.
Playing Dumbledore will define me, says John Lithgow
The Oscar-nominated star is reportedly "in final talks" to sign up to play the Hogwarts headmaster.
Crypto sleuths join hunt for $1.5bn stolen in biggest ever heist
ByBit is offering financial rewards to anyone who can spot criminals attempting to launder the stolen crypto.
BP shareholders want it to make money, not climate policy
The oil and gas producer faces criticism for its shift away from green energy, but many support it.
The 1980s seaside snaps that sparked a controversy
Ahead of a film about him, photographer Martin Parr tells all about his most famous pieces of work.
I feared brain surgery could make me forget my fiance
A devastating side effect made Weronkia Somerville lose 14 years of her life, and then she discovered she had to go through it again.
What Apple pulling Advanced Data Protection means for you
The tech giant's decision has prompted questions and concerns about reduced protections for UK iCloud users.
Michelle Mone-linked PPE firm evidence to be heard in private
Covid inquiry says hearings into the firm, led by Michelle Mone's husband, must be held in closed session.
Wonder Woman game axed as Warner Bros cuts three studios
Warner Bros Games joins a growing list of companies making cuts in the gaming industry.
Trans woman charged with rape dies before court date
Maddison Wilson had been due to attend a plea hearing at Southampton Crown Court.
Charge after girl, 3, killed in van and tram crash
Rawal Rehman is charged with causing death by dangerous driving after Louisa Palmisano was killed.
Chinese foodies pose as mourners to try funeral home's noodles
The noodle dish, provided only to mourners, has gone viral on Chinese social media.
Bournemouth Echo
Pier's £330,000 refurbishment work has been completed
AN historic pier has been brought back into use after the completion of a major £330,000 refurbishment.
Council reveals what sticky white substance on Bournemouth beach is
Seafront workers from BCP Council have identified the white sticky substance found on Bournemouth beach over the weekend.
More than 500 new homes in Bournemouth town centre on the table
MORE than 500 homes could be an option for the Winter Gardens site in Bournemouth town centre, a council report has suggested.
Disruption and buses to replace trains in upcoming weekends
Buses will be replacing train services in the area while maintenance work is being carried out.
New changes for Bournemouth and Poole beach hut bookings
Beach huts from Sandbanks to Southbourne are available once again for booking - this time with a new change.
Support for sexual offence victims is out there, police says
DORSET Police has highlighted help and support that is available for victims of sexual offences.
Bournemouth residents to 'March for Men' next month
Next month, members of the public will 'March For Men' at Bournemouth beach to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer.
Young bowls player wins rising star award
A young bowls player from Poole has won Aviva Rising Star of the Year award for 2024.
New film tells the story of the people affected by UK riots 2024
A BOURNEMOUTH university student is exploring 2024 UK riots through his debut film.
In The Dock: Woman strangled another female among the cases
The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:
Experts warn Brits flight prices need to increase to ‘curb aviation growth’
Climate experts have warned UK flight prices must increase to ‘curb growth in aviation’ - see how much
Stabbing, assault, and armed arrest spark fear over public safety in the area
A town centre stabbing, an assault, and an armed arrest have sparked public concern, with residents voicing fears over their safety.
Tragedy as person dies after being hit by train
A person has died after being hit by a train this morning
RECAP: Crash involving car and pedestrian in Boscombe
Police are on the scene of an incident in Boscombe this morning
Car bursts into flames on the side of the road
Flames were seen engulfing a vehicle at the side of a road in Poole.
Police appeal to identify 'man with thin nose' after £48 toothpaste theft
Police investigate theft of £48 worth of toothpaste from Co-op.
Man taken to hospital after being hit by car
A man has been taken to hospital with reported head injuries after he was involved in a collision with a car in Boscombe.
Woman on a 'mission' to get kids reading again with new scheme
A Bournemouth woman is on a "mission" to get children reading again by taking books to those who need it most.
Flight to Barbados takes off from Bournemouth Airport
SOME 300 excited passengers set off for a Caribbean cruise direct from Bournemouth Airport.
Yellow paint splashed over police station door
Paint was thrown all over the door of a police station.
Multiple accidents involving animals reported on New Forest roads
Multiple accidents involving animals were reported across January on New Forest Roads.
Who can get a new passport for free? See the criteria
Some people can get a new UK passport for free but most people will need to pay whether they apply online or by post.
Dog festival supporting rare condition charity returns after sell-out event
A festival celebrating French bulldogs and raising money for a rare condition will be returning to the New Forest in April after a sell-out event last year.
'So hard to get a doctors appointment these days'
MY HUSBAND today tried to book a doctors appointment at Highcliffe Medical Centre, he was told that he could only have a phone call and that was going to be at the end of March.
Three cars have windscreens smashed in quiet New Forest town
Three vehicles have had their windscreens and panels smashed in the quiet New Forest town as police ramp up their search to identify the culprits.
HMRC rule changes for petrol and diesel drivers from this week
HMRC car tax rules change from March 1, with petrol and diesel drivers facing increased company car rates.
Urgent pension warning to parents who risk losing out on £33,000
Parents have been issued an urgent warning that they risk losing out on up to £33,000 when they retire if they do not act before an April deadline
Primark launches a click and collect service in Dorset
Shoppers in Dorset can now buy Primark items online and pick them up in store.
Four men try to attack staff at garden centre
CCTV images have been released of four men after a theft and an attempted assault in Christchurch.
Vehicle seized by police after driver tried to flee
A vehicle has been seized after a driver tried to flee from police.
Man invaded house with ‘firearm’ in Poole
A MAN invaded a house while brandishing a 'firearm' in Poole, a court heard.
Person 'removed' from vehicle after collision
An individual was 'removed' from their vehicle after a road traffic collision on the B3082 in Dorset.
Dorset MP's plea to cancel planned energy bill rise for pensioners
The Liberal Democrats' research shows that nine in ten UK adults are worried about heating costs and have modified their heating habits to save on bills.
New independent insurance broker launches in Bournemouth
Coversure Bournemouth, an independent health insurance broker, has launched to provide businesses and individuals with greater access to private healthcare and well-being solutions.
Performance psychologist to help professionals ‘master their mindset’
A GYM that has recently opened has teamed up with health specialists to host a ‘retreat’.
Warning issued to British Muslims observing Ramadan over eye health
British Muslims observing Ramadan are advised to stay hydrated and eat nutrient-rich foods to prevent dry eyes and eye strain caused by fasting.
TDSi appoints distribution sales manager for the South
Although primarily based in the southern region, Mr Bullen's role will see him travelling across different regions to meet customers and partners.
New Forest district council tax rise confirmed
The New Forest District Council has set its portion of the 2025/26 council tax at £205.77 per year.
Comedian Chris Ramsey announces Bournemouth Pavilion show
Chris Ramsey is known for his stand-up comedy and TV appearances, including presenting 'Virtually Famous' and 'The Chris Ramsey Show' on Comedy Central.
Children's swim school announces return to Bournemouth
The owner of Puddle Ducks Dorset, Jane Bozic, said: "I am so excited for our lessons to start up again at the Carlton Hotel in Bournemouth.
Nursery children brighten up rainy day with flowers for shoppers
The flowers had been previously donated to the nursery and would otherwise have ended up in a landfill.
School receives more than 450 university offers
The courses range from individual academic subjects like biology, chemistry and computer science to vocational courses like journalism, medicine and physiotherapy.
Paul Merton and Suki Webster to bring improv show to Poole
Comedy duo Paul Merton and Suki Webster will bring their improv show to Lighthouse Poole on October 17, joined by Mike McShane and other special guests.
'It's madness': Dorset MPs demand action on dental care crisis
Dorset's Labour MPs are demanding action to address the county's dental care crisis.
Charity's appeal for sponsors to help homeless young people
"Without our help and support many of these young people will have ended up living on the streets."
Wimborne spring show to include cookery, floral art and photography
This year, the show will also include two classes in the handicraft section and a section for juniors to enter.
Dance school celebrates ten years with special show at Pavilion
They will perform numbers from popular musicals such as 42nd Street and Mamma Mia, as well as Swan Lake.
Musical groups set up for patients with severe mental health problems
Dorset Healthcare and Absolute Music Trust have launched music groups across Dorset to support patients with severe mental health issues, fostering emotional expression and recovery.
BU graduate becomes second solicitor at law firm to qualify
She has been working at the Poole office in the wills, trusts and probate department since January 2023.
Britain's Got Talent winner to perform in Ringwood
Britain's Got Talent 2024 winner Sydnie Christmas will perform at The Barn in Ringwood, following the success of her chart-topping album My Way.
Dorset fund offering £1,000 grants to talented athletes
In its ninth year, the fund has awarded almost £70,000 to 75 youngsters, including Olympic swimmer Jacob Peters.
Iconic British band to perform at Bournemouth venue
British post-punk band Heaven 17 will bring their 'Sound with Vision' UK tour to Bournemouth's O2 Academy, celebrating fan-favourite tracks.
Food festival set to return to town for second year
Last year, thousands of people attended and enjoyed tastings, talks and demonstrations, alfresco dining and live music.
Government
River Wye (Cleaning) Bill
A Bill to require the Secretary of State to publish and implement a plan for cleaning and improving the water quality of the River Wye; and for connected purposes.
Formula 1
Everything you need to know about pre-season testing as F1 heads to Bahrain
The long days of waiting for the 2025 season to kick off are nearly at an end, with fans getting their first chance to gauge this year’s competitive order at pre-season testing in Bahrain this week.
FIA World Motor Sport Council confirms mandatory two-stop strategies for Monaco Grand Prix
The FIA World Motor Sport Council has approved proposals for a mandatory two-stop strategy to be implemented at the Monaco Grand Prix.
F1 QUIZ: 10 tricky questions about Formula 1 pre-season testing
Pre-season testing kicks off this week – so get warmed up for day one with our winter testing quiz...
Antonelli tops first morning of pre-season testing in Bahrain
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli set the pace during the first session of 2025 pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, leading the way from Red Bull’s Liam Lawson.
IN PHOTOS: Every 2025 F1 car on track during pre-season testing in Bahrain
Formula 1 burst back into life on Wednesday as all 10 teams took to the Bahrain International Circuit to kick off the pre-season testing period.
INSIGHT: Hamilton's meticulous preparation as he gets to grips with his new Ferrari life
Thirty-eight days after Lewis Hamilton first set foot in Maranello as an official Ferrari driver (and took the now iconic photo of him dressed in an all-black suit and coat outside Enzo Ferrari’s office, which broke the internet) the seven-time World Champion will get his first real taste of what kind of machinery he’ll have to fight with in 2025 when he takes part in the official three-day pre-season test in Bahrain.
GALLERY: Cars hit the track for the first day of 2025 pre-season testing in Bahrain
Formula 1 has officially returned to action, with the 2025 cars hitting the track for the opening day of pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit on Wednesday.
LIVE COVERAGE: All the action from Day 1 of 2025 pre-season testing in Bahrain
Keep up to date with all the action - both on track and off it - as the 10 F1 teams work on preparations for the 2025 season. Live coverage of Day 1 in Bahrain.
Who’s driving on Day 1 of 2025 pre-season testing in Bahrain
Fresh from the spectacular F1 75 launch event in London last week, drivers and teams are back on track for pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit. But who will be at the wheel through Wednesday’s running in the Sakhir desert? Check out the full list below...
Windows Central
Xbox Cloud Gaming expands with invite links and more "Stream Your Own Game" titles, including this 2022 indie hit
Xbox Cloud Gaming expands with shared link joining, while more games are getting "Stream Your Own Game" support, including Cult of the Lamb.
New Helldivers 2 Major Order presents a dilemma between saving a new stratagem or 'moderately feeble young adults,' but players boldly reply: "Why not save both?"
As a new Helldivers 2 Automaton offensive targets two planets, players are trying a bold strategy that could save both.
Microsoft makes OpenAI's "truly magical" paywalled Think Deeper and Voice features FREE without caps for all Copilot users: "We know many of you have been hitting limits"
Microsoft has announced that it's rolling outtwo powerful capabilities to all Copilot users for free, including Voice and Think Deeper.
Google is killing uBlock Origin. Here are your options.
The popular ad blocker uBlock Origin has stopped working for many people. Chrome, Edge, and several popular browsers will soon stop being compatible with the extension.
Elden Ring, Dark Souls fans raise over $30,000 for beloved community member's medical bills in one afternoon: "This has already smashed every expectation"
In mere hours, the Soulsborne community banded together to donate thousands of dollars to a beloved creator in need.
Warner Bros. Games shuts down Wonder Woman developer Monolith Productions in latest gaming purge
In the latest round of games industry purges, Warner Bros. Games is shuttering Wonder Woman developer Monolith Productions and other teams.
Monster Hunter Wilds could be the franchise's biggest hit — but I'm disappointed it still fumbles on one thing
Monster Hunter Wilds multiplayer design remains overly-complicated. It has the potential to surpass the success of Monster Hunter: World, but I really expected more improvements to the co-op experience.
I can't pick a favorite — the award-winning Razer Blade 16 or its new big sibling — but you can preorder both now
Razer just unveiled its new Blade 18 gaming laptop powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090. The company also opened preorders for its award-winning Blade 16 that wowed us at CES 2025.
Razer and Minecraft just announced a limited-edition collection, and I'm surprised it took so long
Razer has announced a new limited-edition Minecraft collection with four of its popular accessories decked out in Minecraft colors. All four products are available now.
AI-generated content in games is here to stay — the bigger issue is the outright deception and what the future may look like
Developers shouldn't have to be forced to confess to using AI in video games. They should already be transparent and let us decide for ourselves.
Microsoft Edge will also block uBlock Origin, but it may not be just yet (Update)
Microsoft Edge will no longer support uBlock Origin. That ad blocker will stop working on Chromium browsers in the near future.
The developers behind Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy XV will deliver another JRPG sequel to Xbox and PC gamers this year
Edge of Memories, a sequel to the 2021 JRPG cult hit Edge of Eternity, has been revealed and will be available on Xbox and PC.
Anthropic unveils Claude 3.7 Sonnet, the smartest and first hybrid reasoning model — "Self-reflecting like humans," but with a trade-off on speed for quality AI responses
Anthropic recently unveiled Claude 3.7 Sonnet, touting it as the "most intelligent model to date," and also launched Claude Code for agentic coding.
Laffgaff
Which celebration’s name literally means ‘Fat Tuesday’ in French?
Mardi Gras.
Cloud Phone
Never use a cloud-based phone. You'll end up with mist calls.