The News - Monday, 03 March 2025

BBC News

Starmer announces 'coalition of the willing' to guarantee Ukraine peace

The UK prime minister says Europe would take the lead but would need US backing for a peace plan.

Laura Kuenssberg: Zelensky bruised but upbeat after diplomatic whirlwind

The Ukrainian president is standing firm after his Oval Office clash with Donald Trump, says the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg.

Stars turn on the style on Oscars red carpet - in pictures

See all the looks as celebrities arrive for Hollywood biggest night.

TikTok profiting from sexual livestreams involving children, BBC told

Young women in Kenya tell the BBC they have used TikTok to sell sexual content since they were teenagers.

Arab states and UN condemn Gaza aid blockade by Israel

They say the move violates the ceasefire deal - Israel says it acted because Hamas was stealing aid supplies.

UK death rate 'reaches record low'

The UK death rate reached a record low last year, according to exclusive analysis of death certificate data carried out for BBC News.

Ministers outline plans to ban new leasehold flats

Ministers want to move to a "commonhold" system where flat-owners own a share of their buildings.

Cancer family 'financially broken' by benefits wait

Charity report finds seven-month average wait for families of children with cancer to access benefits.

Covid inquiry turns to PPE deals and the 'VIP lane'

Four weeks of hearings will look at the purchase of billions of pounds of medical equipment in the pandemic.

Crypto prices rally after Trump backs five coins for 'crypto reserve'

Trump named five cryptocurrencies he wanted in a potential national reserve so the US could become "the Crypto Capital of the World".

Was Starmer's summit enough to sway Trump?

Europe stepping up is only half of the story and much depends on whether the US is willing to play its part.

Warm reception for Zelensky as he meets King at Sandringham

The Ukrainian president met the King at his Norfolk residence following a summit of European leaders in London.

UK announces £1.6bn missile deal

The PM announced "a number" of allies had signed up to his plan following the Lancaster House summit.

Diversity backlash: Is 'masculine energy' coming to the UK?

Donald Trump has scrapped federal diversity initiatives and many US firms have too - will UK companies follow suit?

The Papers: 'New Ukraine peace deal' and Zelensky's 'king-size welcome'

Sir Keir Starmer's plans to form a "coalition of the willing" to end the war in Ukraine leads most of Monday's papers.

The 'Time Lords' racing to tackle the threat of GPS jamming

How a new atomic clock might be the way to tackle attacks on plane GPS systems

Switzerland targets rich tourists but at what cost?

Switzerland's already upmarket tourism sector is trying to attract more high rollers.

Lady Gaga is back, and Jennie's debut solo album is here: What to stream this week

This week also sees the release of Split Fiction, R-Patz's new film Mickey-17 and Meghan's delayed TV show.

Morgan Freeman leads Oscars tribute to 'dear friend' Gene Hackman

Freeman said Hollywood had lost "a giant", days after Hackman and his wife were found dead at their home.

DR Congo defies pressure over talks with rebel M23

DR Congo's prime minister tells the BBC her government will not sit down with the militants.

Ex-Barclays boss with Epstein links seeks to clear name

Jes Staley wants to overturn a decision by the UK regulator banning him from holding a senior role in the City.

British-Israeli hostage says scars show 'hope' ahead of surgery

Emily Damari, 28, lost two fingers while being taken captive during the 7 October 2023 attacks.

Private spacecraft Blue Ghost lands on Moon

It was launched by Firefly Aerospace in January with the mission of exploring the Sea of Crises.

Man jailed for murdering son's girlfriend

A 50-year-old man is sentenced to life imprisonment and will spend at least 20 years in jail.

Best moments from the Oscars: A payback kiss, a surprise win, and a call out to 'Mommy'

It's the biggest night in Hollywood - here are some of the top moments from Sunday night's show.

Low-paid workers to get right to 80% of salary in sick pay

Those currently earning less than £123 a week are currently not eligible for sick pay.

Singing Butler painter Jack Vettriano dies aged 73

The artist, best known for The Singing Butler, was found dead at his apartment in the south of France.

Thousands evacuated as Japan's biggest fire in decades continues to burn

At least one person has died and more than 80 buildings have been damaged in the blaze.

Deadline for National Insurance top-ups softened

A looming deadline for people to plug NI gaps, to ensure they get the full state pension, has been eased.

Gaza ceasefire in peril as Israel and Hamas hit impasse

Concern grows after Israel said it would block aid to Gaza unless Hamas accepted a new US proposal.

'Scammers stole £40k after EDF gave out my number'

Thousands of pounds were stolen after EDF gave his mobile number to scammers, says Stephen.

Blatter and Platini back in court in Swiss Fifa fraud case

Ex-Fifa head Sepp Blatter and French football great Michel Platini were cleared in 2022, but prosecutors appealed.

Watch: Stars celebrate at glitzy after party

Award winners and nominees headed for a night of partying across Los Angeles after the Oscars ceremony concluded.

Anora sweeps Oscars with best picture, best director and best actress wins

The whirlwind drama wins five prizes, including best actress for 25-year-old newcomer Mikey Madison.

Watch: Standout moments from the ceremony

Anora sweeps the Oscars with five awards including best picture and best actress for star Mikey Madison.

In pictures: Stars turn on the style on Oscars red carpet

See all the looks as celebrities arrive for Hollywood biggest night.

Is King Charles the key to keeping Ukraine and US talking?

King Charles has been a key part of efforts to maintain relationships with Trump and Zelensky.

Diversity backlash: Is 'masculine energy' coming to the UK?

Donald Trump has scrapped federal diversity initiatives and many US firms have too - will UK companies follow suit?

Switzerland targets rich tourists but at what cost?

Switzerland's already upmarket tourism sector is trying to attract more high rollers.

A weekend of frantic talks - where does it leave Zelensky, Trump and Europe?

Where does a weekend of European support for Ukraine leave Zelensky's US relations after White House row?

How Spitalfields reflects the ever-changing face of London

What can east London's Spitalfields show us about the changing patterns of immigration in the UK?

Planes are having their GPS hacked. Could new clocks keep them safe?

How a new atomic clock might be the way to tackle attacks on plane GPS systems

Criminal charges over Paddington statue cut from bench

The front of the sculpture was cut away and removed from a seat in author Michael Bond's home town.

US tariffs on Canada and Mexico will go ahead on Tuesday, says commerce chief

Howard Lutnick says the president's threat of blanket import taxes on his neighbours will proceed as planned.

Dozens found alive in metal containers after India avalanche

They survived as the containers had enough oxygen to sustain them during a days-long rescue, said officials.

Programme for government a 'significant milestone', says O'Neill

The programme for government includes a target of treating an extra 70,000 patients to reduce hospital waiting lists

Piers Morgan returns to Good Morning Britain after almost four years

The TV presenter left the show in 2021 over his controversial comments about the Duchess of Sussex.

Third man charged with murder after house fire

Sharaz Ali is charged in connection with a house fire that left a mother and her three children dead.

Mayors call for PM to visit Calais migrant camps

The mayors say co-operation is “a must” and it is time for the UK prime minister to visit.

Bournemouth Echo

Costly car parks, visible policing and empty town – Residents raise concerns with MP

Costly car parks, visible policing and shrinking of Bournemouth – Residents raise concerns with MP

Crime commissioner looks to stop knife crime becoming ‘more of a problem’

The police and crime commissioner said he is taking action to stop knife crime ‘becoming more of a problem in Dorset’.

Residents closer to having 'greater influence' where they live

Residents from Bournemouth and Poole are closer to having a 'greater influence' on plans and facilities where they live.

Survey launched with aims to keep young women in Dorset safe

A survey has been launched with the aim to keep young girls and woman in Dorset safe.

Bakery reopens after £150,000 makeover

A BAKERY has reopened after a £150,000 refurbishment.

Easter weekend disruption for rail passengers due to works

Rail passengers will face disruption over the Easter weekend due to maintenance work.

'Free speech and access to truthful data are essential'

FORMER UK foreign secretary David Miliband tells us that foreign aid delivers value for money; it saves lives, immunises and helps in providing sustainable livelihoods. Funding the Future, like Keynes in 1941, has better ideas about how to pay for war rather than hit the poorest.

'Disappointing' number of animal crashes in New Forest in 2025, say police

There has been a 'disappointing' number of crashes involving animals in the New Forest this year, say police

Police give update on murder investigation after man's death

A man arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on conditional bail as an investigation continues.

LIVE: Emergency services deal with incident involving lorry

Emergency services are dealing with an incident involving a lorry

Footballer badly injured in horror crash issues 'lucky to be alive' statement

A Southampton footballer, who plays for Bashley FC, has said he is "lucky to be alive" after a serious crash on the M27

Man charged with attempted murder after town centre stabbing

A MAN has been charged with attempted murder after two men were stabbed in Bournemouth town centre during a “night of chaos”.

Hunt for man and woman after street fight leaves victim in hospital

CCTV images of a man and a woman have been released after a man sustained 'serious injury' to his jaw following an assault outside Buffalo Bar in Bournemouth.

Mechanic 'never seen anything like it' as A35 pothole 'damages 60 cars in a week'

Nightmare potholes have taken out at LEAST 60 cars on the A35 over the past four days alone - with a mechanic saying he's 'never seen anything like it'

Top awards open nominations for best local businesses

Now in their 12th year, The Muddy Stilettos Awards, supported in Dorset, Somerset and Bristol by Porter Dodson Solicitors, are now open.

Five are bringing their UK reunion tour to Bournemouth

Everybody Get Up! Nineties boy band Five will bring their reunion tour to Bournemouth.

Residents afraid to use their cars as 'selfish' holidaymakers pinch parking for weeks

Residents of Cromwell Road in Dorchester say their parking situation is a “nightmare” as cars have been left, in some cases for as long as six months, whilst people go on holiday

Special night of comedy coming to Bournemouth bar

A special night of comedy will be held at a Bournemouth bar to mark St Patrick’s Day weekend.

Experts called to investigate 15th-century artwork found in Dorset town

Top London experts are appraising a three-panelled piece of altar artwork known as a triptych from St. Johns’ Almshouse in Sherborne.

Man to take on London Marathon after losing a whopping seven stone

A man from Christchurch will lace up his trainers for the London Marathon next month after shedding a whopping seven stone.

'Buying a home is an unachievable dream'

“I love my grandson. He’s such a lovely boy. But he needs to move out!”

Search for 'stocky' woman after dog walker attacked

CCTV images have been released as police ramp up their search after a woman in her 70s was pushed in the chest and verbally abused.

Man taken to hospital and arrested after crash

A MAN has been arrested after a two-vehicle crash saw one of the cars on its roof.

New care homes officially opened in the New Forest

A new extra care community in New Milton has officially opened

Meet the youngster aiming to swim 5k in three hours for charity

A nine-year-old girl is aiming to make a splash when she embarks on a 5k swimathon later this month.

Bournemouth disability charity chosen to present to Austrian parliament

A Bournemouth charity which helps disabled people to start their own business has been selected to present its ideas on an innovative employment programme to the Austrian Parliament.

Dog walking business shortlisted for national award

A pet care service and dog walking business in Bournemouth has been shortlisted for a national award.

Baby event to be held for families in Poole

A photographer is holding an event in Poole to raise money for baby loss charity, SPRING.

Lent lunch events to help raise money for Christian Aid

Charity supporters in Wimborne are helping to mark the 80th anniversary of Christian Aid with a series of Lent lunches.

'Homes are great but schools and doctors are needed, too'

Regarding the 500 homes on the Winter Gardens site.

BAFTA and Olivier award winner becomes patron of Purbeck group

ACCLAIMED actor Sir Mark Rylance has become the Patron of Planet Purbeck in a major boost for the growing community group.

Hospices face 'major problem' with finances despite government grant, says CEO

Julia’s House, based in Wiltshire and Dorset, has been given £131,315 in funding from the government in its latest investment to improve hospice facilities.

Nursery set to open above Tesco later this year

A NURSERY is to open a new branch later this year above the only Tesco inside a church.

Driver in hospital after car 'rear-ends' lorry on notorious corner

A DRIVER has been taken to hospital after a car ‘rear-ended’ a lorry on a notorious corner.

Pedestrian hit by police car during crash on busy road

A PEDESTRIAN was hit by a police car on a busy Bournemouth road.

Man arrested on suspicion of carrying out arson spree won't face criminal charges

A MAN who was arrested following a spree of vehicle fires in Branksome has been released without charge.

Ofsted launches consultation on new inspection model

Ofsted is consulting on a new inspection model featuring Ofsted Report Cards and a five-point grading scale to replace single-word judgments.

Insolvency firm's advice for small business directors

"I always advise them that without significant changes, the risk of another liquidation remains high.:

Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday? Everything you need to know

Shrove Tuesday also known as Pancake Day is an historic and religious event in the UK, but what's the reason we celebrate it?

Formula 1

F2 and F3 CEO Bruno Michel on F1’s ‘exceptional’ rookie intake and why Bearman’s super-sub showing was so vital

Of the 20 drivers on the 2025 Formula 1 grid, 16 of them competed in F2/F3 (or GP2/GP3 as they used to be known) en route to their F1 seat. Over a third of those drivers have graduated in the past six months, but everyone progressed through the ranks under the watchful eye of F2 and F3 CEO Bruno Michel.

Joanne Ciconte joins 2025 F1 ACADEMY grid with MP Motorsport

The 2025 F1 ACADEMY grid is almost set, with 16-year-old Joanne Ciconte joining this year’s line-up with MP Motorsport.

REVEALED: Your favourite driver helmet of the 2025 F1 season

The votes are in and your favourite driver helmet for 2025 has been revealed!

Newey embarks on his first official day at Aston Martin

Adrian Newey has officially started his new chapter at Aston Martin, with the Briton embarking on his first day as Managing Technical Partner at the outfit following his exit from Red Bull.

F1 Tokyo Fan Festival to take place during Japanese Grand Prix weekend

The F1 Tokyo Fan Festival will to take place during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend in April, connecting the Japanese capital with Suzuka and bringing the excitement of Formula 1 to the heart of Japan's capital city.

‘We’ve gone through a lot’ – Hamilton shares ‘really awesome’ experience of reuniting with trainer Angela Cullen

Lewis Hamilton has opened up about reuniting with former trainer Angela Cullen ahead of his debut season as a Ferrari driver, with the seven-time World Champion describing Cullen’s acceptance of his offer to join him for his new chapter as “really exciting”.

Windows Central

Lenovo's wild new concept hardware jams AI everywhere, but there's one big problem

Lenovo's new proof-of-concept AI devices are here, and it looks like the company is serious about adding AI to everything. Here's what you need to know.

Lenovo’s flagship creator laptop pairs the brightest OLED screen I’ve ever seen with an RTX 5070 GPU

The refreshed Yoga Pro 9i and 7i "Aura Edition" laptops have been revealed, and they're among the most powerful creator laptops ever to come out of Lenovo's stable.

This Lenovo laptop is powered by THE SUN, and it puts your old calculator to shame

Lenovo's latest concept PC can get up to an hour of video playback by sitting in the sun for 20 minutes. The company also unveiled a universal charger that uses USB-C.

The world's largest PC manufacturer just made the most niche laptop — meet the new Lenovo ThinkBook 'Flip'

Lenovo’s ThinkBook Flip is both absurd and glorious. It’s an AI PC with an 18.1-inch folding display that flips all the way around.

Here are all the Xbox games launching this week, from March 3 through March 9

Several new games are headed to Xbox this week, including co-op adventure Split Fiction. Here are all the Xbox games launching from March 3 through March 9.

This developer is making Xbox Cloud Gaming better—even without Microsoft's help

Balatro was added to Xbox Game Pass, but despite it being in the cloud gaming library since November, you can't play it with touch controls. Thankfully Better Xcloud have solved the issue.

Diablo 4's new goblins are a nod to Diablo 3—but why stop there?

The March of the Goblins event in Diablo 4 brings back some beloved loot-hoarding critters from Diablo 3, but I think Blizzard could lean even harder into things that made DIablo 3 great.

Next-gen Snapdragon X Elite core count leaks — here's what we know so far

Qualcomm's next-gen Snapdragon X Elite is expected to feature 18 cores, a 50% increase from the first-gen model. A recent leak and other rumors suggest a massive generational leap in design and performance.

I used Acer's latest AI PC for a week — This Aspire laptop handles more than I expected given its low price

In my Acer Aspire 14 AI hands-on, I ran benchmarks and analyzed this AI laptop. Here's what you need to know about it.

I couldn't take my eyes off this laptop's premium 4K, 120Hz OLED display for the entire review period

The Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i 14 (Gen 10) boasts one of the most impressive displays ever put into a laptop, and the rest of the device is also pretty great.

Windows 11 will soon fix the most confusing part of Task Manager

Microsoft is testing an update that will make the Task Manager in Windows 11 display consistent CPU usage across its different tabs. Additionally, the tech giant is working on a new system tray icon to make accessing the emoji panel easier.

Anthropic CEO predicts AI will surpass human smarts by 2027, echoing Bill Gates' claim it will replace humans for most things — but Sam Altman said AGI would whoosh by with "surprisingly little" societal impact

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei predicts AI will become smarter than humans by 2027, echoing Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates' previous comment about the technology replacing humans for most things in the future.

Windows Central Podcast: Panos left Microsoft for THIS?

Daniel and Zac discuss Amazon's new Alexa+ service, Windows 365 Link, Framework's 12-inch laptop, free Office, and more.

Happy Monday! Microsoft services, including Xbox, appear to be down in some locations to start the week

What a way to start the week, with multiple Microsoft services, notably Xbox, experiencing an outage in the UK.

Laffgaff

Which German soccer team plays its home games at the Allianz Arena?

Bayern Munich.

Hotel Receptionist

At first I was excited about my new job as a hotel receptionist. Then I started to get reservations.