The News - Wednesday, 09 April 2025

BBC News

As Trump hikes tariffs again, nervous businesses weigh what comes next

Business owners say the rapid change in US trade policy, including major tariffs on China, has left operations in flux.

Pro-suicide forum subject of first Ofcom probe, BBC understands

BBC News found the forum, which has thousands of members, is linked to at least 50 deaths in the UK.

Government considers nationalising British Steel

There are fears among ministers that the company's blast furnaces could run out of raw materials within days.

Royal Society of Biology mourns murdered scientist

A local mayor in Colombia offers a cash reward to help find Alessandro Coatti’s killers.

Faulty antenna played role in fatal Australian helicopter crash

Four people died and six were seriously injured when two helicopters collided on the Gold Coast in 2023.

New Universal theme park confirmed for UK

The company says the new site is expected to create 28,000 jobs and generate £50bn for the economy.

A third of teachers reported misogyny among pupils last week, survey suggests

Teachers also told a survey commissioned by BBC News they feel ill-equipped to tackle the issue.

Dominican Republic nightclub collapse kills 98

More than 150 people are injured as rescuers continue search for survivors in Santo Domingo.

UK investigating claims green fuel contains virgin palm oil

The BBC finds evidence of fraud in the production of a "green" diesel meant to cut emissions.

Astro Bot dominates Bafta Games Awards with five wins

Sony's 3D platformer scoops five trophies in total at the London ceremony, with Balatro winning best debut.

What would a US-China trade war do to the world economy?

The US president says he will hit Beijing with further tariffs, as global markets continue to fall.

What is all this tariff stuff about? Your questions answered

The BBC's Cost of Living Correspondent answers your questions about how the tariffs might impact your money

The Canadians and Danes boycotting American products

As anger grows over Trump's tariffs, apps and social media groups are helping people avoid US goods.

Tracking the world's major cocaine route to Europe - and why it's growing

The UK is now a major market for cocaine in Europe - and that's affecting people around the world.

The Papers: Harry in court and London's 'super-rich move out'

A number of Wednesday's front pages reflect on the Duke of Sussex at the High Court.

Sarah Brown: Our baby loss led to search for answers

There was an outpouring of support from the public after the death of Sarah and Gordon Brown's daughter Jennifer.

'Black Mirror could just run and run', says Charlie Brooker

The unsettling tech-driven anthology is back for a seventh series and there's no shortage of material.

'He revelled in his hard man reputation': What led to a teen killing an elderly dog walker

The man who led the inquiry into the killing of Bhim Kohli says it shocked the victim's family and the wider community.

Can the US return man deported to El Salvador? Immigration lawyers think so

Lawyers and experts say the case has the potential to upend due process for immigrants in the US.

'It looked possessed' - sick sea lions attacking beachgoers in California

A toxic algae bloom in southern California has sickened dozens of animals, causing them to have seizures and act erratically.

Prison governor found guilty of relationship with gang boss inmate

Kerri Pegg "didn't play by the rules" and began a relationship with a convicted drug dealer.

Prince Harry's downgraded security was unjustified, court hears

The Duke of Sussex is making his latest legal challenge on the level of police protection he should get when visiting the UK.

Victim shot through own window, police confirm

Durham Police has given an update after Barry Dawson was killed in Stanley on Saturday.

Is the US making $2bn a day from tariffs? Trump claims fact-checked

President Trump has made a series of claims about how the US faces "unfair trade" as he justifies his sweeping tariffs on imports from other countries.

Seven officers injured in multi-vehicle collision during chase on A1

Two people are arrested after a police chase, which saw seven officers taken to hospital.

Man guilty of murdering woman in front of daughter at Notting Hill Carnival

Shakeil Thibou is found guilty of murdering Cher Maximen after stabbing her at Notting Hill Carnival.

Harry's step back from royals led to 'unique' circumstances, court told

The Duke of Sussex is in court for the second day of his appeal over his level of security in the UK.

The drug gang boss who had a fling with his prison governor

Inspired by Breaking Bad and The Sopranos, Anthony Saunderson was part of an "industrial scale" drugs gang.

King greeted by Meloni before speaking Italian in parliament speech

The King and Queen will later attend a state dinner on the third day of their state visit to Italy.

UK mortgage lenders cut rates after Trump tariffs

Lenders lower mortgage costs as experts forecast interest rates will be cut by more than expected.

Joey Barton libelled former England striker Aluko in X posts, judge finds

A judge rules Joey Barton's social media posts about the former England striker were defamatory.

Rourke warned over 'homophobic' remarks to Siwa in Big Brother

Actor Mickey Rourke gets a formal warning for "offensive and unacceptable" language about JoJo Siwa.

Trump tariffs spark US government debt sell-off

The cost of borrowing for the US government rose as confidence in the economy waned.

Trump rips up rulebook on trade and businesses are left reeling

Firms say the rapid change in US trade policy, including big taxes on China, has left them in flux.

The Canadians and Danes boycotting American products

As anger grows over Trump's tariffs, apps and social media groups are helping people avoid US goods.

'Working from home has helped me be a better mum'

Working from home has been said to benefit parents - but how does it impact children?

'It looked possessed' - sick sea lions attacking beachgoers in California

A toxic algae bloom in southern California has sickened dozens of animals, causing them to have seizures and act erratically.

Israeli strike on Gaza residential building kills 29, medics say

The Israeli military says it had struck a "senior Hamas terrorist" in the Shejaiya neighbourhood of Gaza City.

British Steel solution is within reach, minister says

The UK government is considering nationalising the Chinese-owned firm which employs 2,700 people.

Germany is back, says Merz, after sealing government deal

The chancellor-in-waiting's conservatives have reached a coalition agreement with Germany's Social Democrats, five months after the last government collapsed.

BBC unveils restored controversial statue by Eric Gill

The statue has been restored after a member of the public attacked it with a hammer.

'Privilege and ignorance': British adventurer faces backlash over Canada trek claims

Camilla Hempleman-Adams has apologised for offence caused to the Inuit community on Baffin Island.

Ex-snooker champion Graeme Dott charged with child sex offences

The 47-year-old faces historical charges relating to two children who were understood to be around 10 years old at the time.

UK investigating claims green fuel contains virgin palm oil

The BBC finds evidence of fraud in the production of a "green" diesel meant to cut emissions.

A third of teachers reported misogyny among pupils last week, survey suggests

Teachers also told a survey commissioned by BBC News they feel ill-equipped to tackle the issue.

Ex-snooker champion Dott charged with child sex offences

The 47-year-old faces historical charges relating to two children who were understood to be around 10 years old at the time.

Barton X posts about Aluko defamatory, judge rules

A judge rules Joey Barton's social media posts about the former England striker were defamatory.

Bournemouth Echo

Inquest into murder victim’s death concludes as killer jailed

AN INQUEST into the death of a murder victim has concluded after her killer was jailed.

Thieves caught after horse riding equipment stolen across county

THIEVES were caught after horse riding equipment was stolen from across Dorset.

Dorset surgeries go green to help planet and cut costs

"The changes we are planning are simple and affordable, such as switching to LED lighting, improving insulation and sealing window gaps."

'Joined up thinking needed to tackle traffic jams'

I may be slightly over quota for published letters, but here goes.

Readers can subscribe for just £3 for 3 months in this flash sale

Readers who want to subscribe to our news site can enjoy an exclusive offer of £3 for 3 months or save over 40% off an annual subscription during our limited-time promotion.

New rose created to help raise money for Oakhaven Hospice

The rose was created by Harkness Roses, which is donating £2.50 from each sale to Oakhaven Hospice.

Charity chief executive to retire after 40 years' service

"Together, we have accomplished remarkable things and I am confident that Help and Care will continue to thrive and make a difference in the years to come."

Animation about hedgehog survival hits film awards final

The film aims to spread awareness about actions to help hedgehogs survive and thrive in the wild.

'Unique' live tank displays coming to Dorset this Easter

The "Tanks in Action" display features a group of armoured vehicles, including a Leopard I tank, demonstrating how they work together in battle.

Wildlife presenter Steve Backshall to bring new show to BIC

Audiences can also expect to see stunts, experiments and science, all in the name of a wildlife spectacle.

Rugby Club secures sponsorship for fundraising festivals

North Dorset Rugby Football Club has secured sponsorship from David Wilson Homes.

Violinist Nicola Benedetti to perform at Lighthouse in Poole

Benedetti, who was appointed a CBE in 2019, is recognised as one of the most sought-after violinists of her generation.

Pop-punk band announce Bournemouth show as part of UK tour

Known for their "honesty, community and positivity," New Found Glory have continued to be an influential band in the pop-punk genre.

Twilight Walk to support those affected by breast cancer

"Breast cancer doesn’t just affect patients; it has a huge impact on their families, friends and neighbours."

Bournemouth dance entrepreneur receives national recognition

The event at the House of Lords brought together hundreds of female entrepreneurs to celebrate their contribution to the economy and their positive impact on society.

Blandford school hosts first-ever Creative Arts Awards

A highlight was the recognition of two international awards at the Child of Hope School in Uganda.

Bournemouth's Russell-Cotes conservatory fully restored

This means that museum visitors can now enjoy views of the surrounding area from inside the conservatory, regardless of the weather.

Young dancers come together for area's first Bharatanatyam festival

Young dancers came together for what is believed to be the area’s first classical Bharatanatyam festival.

New multi-use games area set to be built in town

The MUGA is part of the council's long-term plan to transform the park into a more inclusive and better-used space.

In The Dock: Woman banned from all Dorset pubs, bars and nightclubs after assault

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

'Serial stalker' who harassed six women became fixated and obsessed, court told

Steven Escott bombarded Clare Tilsed with unwanted messages, emails and gifts after she ended their three-month relationship.

'It is no longer consistent with my views' - Councillor resigns from Tory party

A BCP councillor has resigned from the Conservative Party, saying the party is no longer ‘consistent’ with her views.

Ringwood announces plans for VE Day 80 commemorations

The ceremony will conclude with a shared national moment, joining in the singing of "A Song of Peace".

Investigation concludes into man murdered by teens in own home

THE INVESTIGATION has concluded into the death of a man who was murdered by two teenagers in his own home.

Parents plead with council to save 'incredible' pre-school

Desperate parents have told the council that the loss of an 'incredible' pre-school would be a huge blow to the entire community.

Father issues desperate plea to stay in UK with his family

A FATHER from Ferndown is appealing for support as he raises funds to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK, which would allow him to continue living with his family.

Traffic delays on A338 and A35 near Bournemouth following crash

A338 in Bournemouth is congested westbound due to a crash.

Two roads closed while murder investigation carried out

Moore Avenue in West Howe has been closed since the early hours of the morning with forensics on the scene. Latest updates as we get them.

WATCH: Man attempted to start fire at petrol station with lighter

A man has been sentenced to four years in prison after trying to start a fire at a petrol station in Bournemouth.

Multiple murder arrests made after motorcyclist dies

Three people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man died in a serious crash in Bournemouth.

Roads closed 'for much of day' while 'big crash' is investigated

A “BIG” crash has led to the closure of two roads in Bournemouth today.

Man aged in 60s arrested for sexual communication with a child

A man aged in his 60s has been arrested on suspicion of sexual communication with a child.

REVEALED: The food hygiene ratings for Dorset, BCP and New Forest

The scores are in — the latest batch of food hygiene ratings for local restaurants, cafes, takeaways and businesses have been revealed.

Mum and daughter took their own lives after suicide of another sibling

A mother and her daughter took their own lives together following the suicide of another sibling, an inquest has heard.

Staff have to pay to park at hospital again

Free parking for NHS staff was brought in by the Government during the Covid pandemic in 2020 and it was then extended by DCH to help with the cost of living. DCH was one of more than a dozen trusts that continued to waive the fees. Charges were introduced this week at the Dorchester site for nurses, doctors and other staff but the price, to be paid monthly, is based on what employees earn.

Murder inquiries in BCP: What we know after four investigations launched this year

FOUR murder investigations have been launched in Bournemouth and Poole since the start of the year.

Exact date for closure of supermarket store confirmed

In March this year, it was announced that Morrisons would be shutting some of its Daily convenience stores.

Fire ripped through tent on clifftop after explosions 'like bomb went off'

Explosions from inside a tent sparked a fire on a clifftop heath, sending 10ft flames into the air.

'Absurd' plans for 140 homes near nature reserve should be refused, say councillors

Ringwoos Town Council has called for controversial plans to build 140 homes near Blashford Lakes to be refused.

Millions of motorists issued MOT warning after drivers 'caught out'

Experts have urged drivers to check their cars carefully before their next MOT.

The 5 'unusual' hay fever symptoms to look out for as 'pollen bomb' hits the UK

Pharmacist Mital Thakrar (Well Pharmacy Online Doctor) has revealed five unusual hay fever symptoms to watch for as a pollen bomb hits the UK.

Warning for anyone who fixed their gas and electricity bills last year

Fixed deals from British Gas, EDF, OVO, E.ON, Octopus Energy, and several small suppliers are ending, and customer bills may shoot up

Aldi apologises to customers as 'do not eat' warning and recall issued

An Aldi spokesman said: “We apologise that this product did not meet our normal high standards and thank you for your co-operation.”

Bournemouth MP ‘delighted’ by extra GP hirings in new government figures

New government figures published today show that over 1,500 extra GPs have been recruited since October 2025.

Formula 1

IT’S RACE WEEK: 5 storylines we’re excited about ahead of the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix

The races are coming thick and fast at the start of the 2025 season and we’re into the middle of our first triple-header. It’s a familiar venue at least as the teams return to the site of pre-season testing, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of talking points on arrival in Bahrain.

PALMER: Why Tsunoda’s first weekend with Red Bull was a lot more impressive than his final result suggested

Tsunoda’s otherwise impressive first weekend with Red Bull was undone by one small mistake at the wrong time, says ex-F1 driver Jolyon Palmer.

‘My Mum really cares about it’ – Antonelli on balancing F1 with schoolwork as rookie reveals his least favourite subjects

Kimi Antonelli has detailed the challenge he is currently facing in trying to balance his F1 career alongside completing his school work, with the 18-year-old looking to find a time to complete his final exams amidst his busy schedule.

Ayumu Iwasa set to drive Verstappen’s Red Bull in FP1 at Bahrain Grand Prix

Red Bull have confirmed that Ayumu Iwasa will get behind the wheel of Max Verstappen’s RB21 during Free Practice 1 at the Bahrain Grand Prix.

THIS WEEK IN F1: 10 tough quiz questions on the Japanese Grand Prix

Were you paying attention to all the action at Suzuka on the weekend?

What tyres will the teams and drivers have for the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix?

Bahrain plays host to the fourth round of the calendar, and the middle race of the first triple header of the campaign. The teams have already been at the Bahrain International Circuit this season, for three days of testing in late February.

McLaren, Deloitte UK and FIA announce Circularity Handbook to improve sustainable practices in developing and building F1 cars

McLaren, Deloitte UK and the FIA have today revealed details of the F1 Constructors’ Circularity Handbook, designed to improve sustainable practices in the development and manufacture of the F1 car.

What is the weather forecast for the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix?

Formula 1 is back this weekend with the Bahrain Grand Prix, the second in a triple header sequence of races – but what kind of weather conditions can the drivers expect in Sakhir?

BEYOND THE GRID: Marc Gene on working with five World Champions at Ferrari

Ferrari ambassador and former test driver Marc Gene has been with the team since 2004 – and, during that time, he has had the privilege of working alongside five World Champions: Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel, and now Lewis Hamilton.

How to stream the Formula 1 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix on F1 TV Premium

‘I would say I’m ready’ – Hadjar says he’d relish Red Bull call-up as Marko declares himself ‘really happy’ with French rookie

Isack Hadjar has said he ‘would say I’m ready’ if Red Bull opted to shuffle its driver for a third time this season.

Windows Central

Is Dune: Awakening on Xbox Game Pass?

Dune: Awakening is one of 2025's most exciting new survival games, but will it be on Xbox Game Pass?

Is DOOM: The Dark Ages on Xbox Game Pass?

DOOM: The Dark Ages could be the best DOOM game we've gotten yet, but is it coming to Xbox Game Pass?

It may be time to say goodbye to WeakAuras in World of Warcraft's 11.1.5 update which just had its launch date announced

Blizzard has announced the release date for World of Warcraft's 11.1.5 update, which will include new events, activities to level up alt characters, and a visual UI upgrade that will let players see their cooldowns more easily.

Razer seemingly halts US laptop sales, including Blade 16, in reaction to new incoming tariffs

Even though Razer's primary business is selling laptops, it's no longer taking direct orders in the US for its gaming machines, likely due to new tariffs imposed by President Trump.

Diablo 4 roadmap re-confirms an expansion for 2026, and it sure looks like there'll be a new class too

Diablo 4 roadmap re-confirms that an expansion is coming in 2026, while seeming to hint at a new class.

Elon Musk got roasted in Path of Exile 2 livestream — He rage-quit after dying over and over

The richest man in the world apparently got made fun of while livestreaming Path of Exile 2 and rage-quit in frustration.

Microsoft 50th anniversary protesters fired, tech giant reprimands former employee for not apologizing or showing remorse

Two Microsoft employees were fired after disrupting the 50th anniversary event and accusing the company of being “war profiteers” over Israel ties.

This charmingly witchy 4-player life sim is one of 2025’s most anticipated indie games (and it’s coming to Xbox Game Pass)

Witchbrook is an isometric, pixel-art life simulator from the team that helped publish Stardew Valley to consoles, Chucklefish. Initially unveiled in 2017, Witchbrook finally has a Winter 2025 release window for Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch—and it’s heading to Xbox Game Pass on Day One.

If Call of Duty: Black Ops 6's Kilo 141 Jade camo challenge is bugged for you, try this

I encountered a bug with the Jade camo challenge for the new Kilo 141 in Black Ops 6, and a few others have, too. Here's how to get around it.

Call of Duty: Warzone's Caine Trailblazer skin is the ultimate chase right now — here's how to give yourself the best shot at getting it fast

The Caine Trailblazer from the Return to Verdansk event is one of the rarest skins in Warzone for some time, because there's no guarantee you'll get it at all.

Microsoft pauses $1 billion data center project — have tech giants overestimated demand for AI?

Microsoft paused its $1 billion data center project in Ohio, raising questions among analysts about whether AI demand has been overestimated.

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 revealed for June 8, 2025: Outer Worlds 2 deep dive confirmed, as Xbox gears up for the future

The next Xbox Games showcase has been revealed in a post on Xbox Wire. Here's what you need to know.

I tested Razer's Iskur V2 gaming chair, and it's just too hard for comfort — but the lumbar support can't be beat

Razer made some notable changes to the Iskur V2 in the name of comfort, but are they enough? Here's my review after using it for a couple of weeks.

Microsoft offers a gift card to a select few for feedback on new Office icons

Microsoft wants user feedback on redesigned app icons for its Office suite, including Word and Excel. What do you think of the new icons?

7 features in Windows 11 I wish were enabled by default

On Windows 11, Microsoft makes many default configurations, but at least these seven features should also be considered to be enabled by default.

Diablo 4 fans react poorly to its roadmap reveal — for things Blizzard should've already learned from

Blizzard fans already hated "borrowed power" in World of Warcraft. So why is it now core in Diablo 4?

I tested this RTX 4060 laptop designed for creators and gamers — Can ASUS appeal to both audiences in one?

The ASUS VivoBook Pro 16 is a laptop designed for both gaming and creative workflows. Can it be good at both?

Replit CEO Amjad Masad says AGI won't replace humans — Unless you're a "code monkey" with no ideas or understanding

Amjad Masad says AI will not replace humans unless you’re a "code monkey" who doesn't understand the economy or deliver unique ideas.

Shopify CEO lists AI skills as a "fundamental expectation" — Employees must prove AI can't do the job before asking for resources

Bill Gates already said AI would replace humans for most things, and now Shopify staff need to prove that AI can't get their jobs done before requesting help.

One of the best gaming chairs we've given a 5-star rating to is now available to purchase in the UK

The SecretLab TITAN Evo NanoGen Edition, one of the best gaming chairs we've ever reviewed, is now available for purchase in the UK.

Laffgaff

What animal is on the World Health Organization’s emblem?

A snake.

Bouillon Cubes

I couldn't find any bouillon cubes in the supermarket. Apparently they're out of stock.