The News - Wednesday, 23 April 2025

BBC News

Musk to reduce Doge role after Tesla profits plunge

The tech boss says he intends to spend only one to two days a week on Trump administration matters.

Why the IMF is worried about the US economy - three things to know

The influential financial agency is projecting slower economic growth in the US due to uncertainty around President Trump's tariffs.

World leaders from Trump to Zelensky to attend Pope's funeral

The pontiff's body will lie in St Peter's Basilica from Wednesday until Friday to allow mourners to pay their respects.

Will the next Pope be from Africa?

Despite having the world's fastest-growing Catholic population, odds are against Africa producing the next pontiff.

Chris Mason: Gender debate has changed but it's not over yet

The landmark Supreme Court ruling has changed the tone of the conversation, our political editor writes.

London to host fresh Russia-Ukraine ceasefire talks

Speculation that Russia might be willing to halt its invasion along current front lines is growing.

'One-of-a-kind' girl born with heart outside chest has pioneering surgery

Vanellope, now seven, undergoes more surgery to reconstruct a "cage" around her heart, using her ribs.

Gaza health ministry denies manipulating death toll figures

Three thousand names were removed from an official list of those killed in Israel's offensive.

Mystery of medieval cemetery near airport runway deepens

Skeletons and artefacts unearthed from the site near Cardiff Airport are baffling archaeologists.

Instagram still posing serious risks to children, campaigners say

Instagram promised more "built-in protections" for young people but researchers say users are still exposed to sexualised images and negative stereotypes.

Police chiefs to be granted powers to remove unfit officers

Police chiefs will be able to automatically sack officers who fail background checks, under new measures.

Who will be the next Pope? Key candidates in an unpredictable contest

Several names are in the fray as cardinals prepare to gather in the Vatican to elect Pope Francis' successor.

Veteran Vatican reporter David Willey reflects on changed Church

Former BBC Rome correspondent David Willey reflexts on how the Vatican has transformed, as well as what its future holds

'Grandpa Francis': A nation remembers the Pope who braved a typhoon for them

Popes enjoy rockstar status in overwhelmingly Catholic Philippines. And yet, Pope Francis was special.

'I've had 100 operations and will never stop' - inside China's cosmetic surgery boom

Face-scanning apps, social media influencers and toxic beauty standards are fuelling China's cosmetic surgery boom.

'We are not Americans' - but what does it mean to be Canadian?

The BBC asked Canadian voters across the country what makes them different from their southern neighbours.

The Papers: 'Putin's offer to halt war' and tariffs 'shock'

The latest twist in Ukraine talks features on many front pages as well as the IMF's verdict on Trump's tariffs

Why should I care if the US dollar falls?

Why movements in the US dollar have a massive impact internationally - and how it could affect you.

The record-breaking tunnel being built from Denmark to Germany

The rail and road link will slash journey times between much of Scandinavia and continental Europe.

Starmer does not believe trans women are women, No 10 says

The UK Supreme Court has ruled that the legal definition of a woman should be based on biological sex.

Paddleboarder was guided to her death, court told

Nicola Wheatley, Morgan Rogers, Paul O'Dwyer and Andrea Powell all died on the trip in 2021.

Cyber attack on M&S leads to click and collect delays

Angry customers have also complained of being unable to use vouchers and gift cards.

Apprentice winner 'not aware' of reported breach

Dean Franklin says he has had the correct licences to run his air conditioning business since 2014.

UK could lower US car tariffs in push for trade deal, Reeves signals

UK negotiators are working "flat out" to get a trade deal with the US, Chancellor Rachel Reeves says.

Paddleboard firm owner jailed over river deaths of four people

Nerys Lloyd is sentenced to 10 years and six months for gross negligence manslaughter.

Mourners visit Pope Francis lying in state at St Peter's Basilica

The body of the pontiff, who died on Monday, has been moved into the church for a period of public mourning.

WhatsApp defends 'optional' AI tool that cannot be turned off

While Meta says the AI chatbot is a "good thing", some users have shared their frustrations.

Badenoch denies rift with Jenrick over Reform comments

The Tory leader thinks the shadow justice secretary is a "team player," her spokesman tells reporters.

Three quarters of driving test centres at maximum wait time

BBC Verify finds that three quarters of British driving test centres have a 24-week wait to book a practical test.

Istanbul residents flood streets after 6.2-magnitude quake

Many people have prepared to spend the night outside to safeguard against another strong tremor.

Birmingham bin strike end in touching distance, says union

Unite agreed to mediation after talks with the city council broke up within 45 minutes on Wednesday.

Letter reveals Shakespeare did not abandon his wife

New analysis of a letter suggests that the couple's relationship was closer than previously thought.

Rage and despair after brazen attack kills 26 in Kashmir

Families are mourning loved ones killed by gunmen in one of India's most popular tourist destinations.

What is Doge and why is Musk stepping back?

Tasked with reducing government spending and cutting jobs, the agency has faced legal challenges.

US intensifying bid to end Ukraine war - but chances of success remain unclear

Negotiations are gathering pace but the proposals being put forward by Trump's team still have major gaps

'Extraordinary world-views': Turner Prize nominees revealed

The four artists in the running for this year's prestigious art award are revealed.

Netflix's Wednesday gets launch date and new characters

Joanna Lumley and Steve Buscemi are seen in a new trailer for the hit show's second season.

Prince Louis photo marks seventh birthday

A photograph taken in Norfolk this month has been released to mark the birthday of Prince Louis.

Starmer lacks moral courage on trans stance, says Badenoch

The PM says the Supreme Court ruling brought clarity and now is the time to "lower the temperature" on the debate.

Apple and Meta attack 'unfair' €700m EU fines

The tech giants have reacted with fury, accusing the EU of unfairly pursuing US companies.

Musk to reduce US government role after Tesla profits plunge

The tech boss says he intends to spend only one to two days a week on Trump administration matters.

Abbas calls Hamas 'sons of dogs' and demands release of Gaza hostages

Palestinian Authority president says that Hamas has given Israel "excuses" to continue the Gaza war.

Remains found after rare shark attack on swimmer in Israel

Footage posted online shows a swimmer flailing in the distance as beachgoers yell in shock.

Bournemouth Echo

Bournemouth restaurant to close due to 'rising costs'

Cork & Lobster in Southbourne has decided to close its doors at the end of May due to rising costs.

Cosmetic clinic thief who blew £44k on beauty treatments ordered to pay back just £1

A COSMETIC manager who stole more than £44,000 to pay for treatments to keep up with her beautiful colleagues has been ordered to pay back a paltry £1.

Huge Bournemouth Pier project pushed back a year

REPAIR work to Bournemouth Pier has been pushed back a year, it has been confirmed.

Tributes to WWII veteran, 99, who served in Women’s Auxiliary Air Force

Tributes have been paid to a devoted wife, mother, and Second World War veteran who has died aged 99.

Family takes back ownership of 'secret' marina after 50 years

"We’re open every day of the week through the summer and we plan to have BBQs and create a relaxing haven for everyone."

Christchurch hotel welcomes major refurb under new ownership

The Kings Arms hotel in Christchurch hotel has reopened under new ownership after welcoming a 'major' and 'stylish' new refurb.

Italian restaurant plans to expand business on high street

A PIZZA restaurant is looking to expand its business out onto the high street.

Churches come together to celebrate Easter with 'Walk of Witness'

On Friday, April 18 (Good Friday), Fordingbridge churches marked the occasion with a Walk of Witness.

Chip shop of the Year 2025 competition: Wonderfrys

Right now, we’re also offering a Buy One Get One Free deal on all kids’ meals—perfect for family dinners on a budget.

New Forest resident convicted of £15k benefit fraud

He stressed the council's commitment to tackling fraud and warned that it will not tolerate such acts.

Historic brass horn to sound again at railway anniversary

The train will be hauled by Swanage Railway Trust’s Victorian T3 class steam locomotive No. 563.

In The Dock: Man found with heroin and ketamine at golf club

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Woman rescued after slipping and breaking her ankle

A woman was rescued by the coastguard after 'slipping on loose gravel' at Durdle Door.

'Hidden gem' to celebrate eighth birthday with Viking event

The venue, which is home to The Speedshop on BBC Two, transforms from a biker café by day to an events space by night.

Brewery wins top award for its first beer in first year of trading

Rude Giant Brew Co stood out among tough competition from renowned breweries including Electric Bear, Brew York and Castle Rock.

Friends to run marathon in support of cancer-stricken colleague

The women have completed numerous sporting and fundraising events over the years, including marathons and ultra marathons.

'Public toilets must be better'

Geoff Beard-Walker (Have Your Say April 11) should be thankful for complaining about the disgraceful state of public toilets in Poole.

Brewery extends sponsorship of charity music festival

The profits from the festival are donated to the festival’s charity, Teddy20 and other children’s cancer causes.

Police issue 700 warning letters to speeding drivers in Dorset

One vehicle was identified travelling at 64mph along Lilliput Road in Poole, which has a 30mph speed limit.

Easter tractor run raises more than £1,000 for charity

After a four-mile return drive to Mannington, participants were met with tea, coffee and homemade cakes.

Chance to quiz council leader during live Q&A session

The session will also cover plans to improve playparks and the newly opened soft play facility at Boscombe’s Kings Park Leisure and Learning Centre.

Coffee morning raises more than £500 for flower festival

Christine Oliver, who is designing the festival, said: "How grateful she was to all who supported the occasion.

'Quirky' indie band to perform at Bournemouth venue

CUD has been described as "fun-loving, light-hearted, romantic and downright catchy".

Surveyor to run London Marathon in memory of his dad

Matt is raising money for Hospice UK, a cause dear to him as Terry received vital care from the Lewis-Manning Hospice Care team and Macmillan Unit in Christchurch.

Rotary Club of Wimborne celebrates 75 years of service

Current members, past members and guests from other Rotary clubs gathered to celebrate the milestone.

Wildlife trust seeks support to plant thousands of trees

The project aims to plant trees to provide food, shelter and safe corridors for various species, including dormice and tawny owls.

Stunt cyclists and supercars to feature at tank museum event

The museum's extensive collection of military vehicles will be accessible to attendees, with interactive exhibitions open for exploration.

Rugby club to host special match to support former chairman

"We have an inter-club game planned so the veterans can see how they get on against the youngsters."

Family fest to reduce ticket prices and extend hours

"Tickets are reduced and all activities at the festival, except for inflatable and fairground rides, are included in the entrance price."

Internationally famous comedian to perform in Poole

Rhys Darby has been performing stand-up since the mid-1990s and is considered one of New Zealand's most successful comedy exports.

Ex-British number one tennis player gives talk to Dorset WI

She gave a humorous presentation about the history of Wimbledon, which included a display of rackets ranging from 100 years old to pickleball bats.

Major event at Bournemouth University to attract global businesses

More than 150 UK and international businesses with an interest in clean maritime are expected at the sixth iteration of the expo.

Gas leak near Poole station causing major disruption

Due to a gas leak near the railway at Poole, all lines are currently disrupted.

Man who tried to kill nine-year-old girl to be sentenced

A MAN who tried to murder a nine-year-old girl in a random attack in Christchurch is due to be sentenced.

Man jailed for stabbing nine-year-old girl after previously stamping on a boy's head

A man has been jailed for stabbing a nine-year-old girl after previously stamping on a child’s head and setting a pram alight.

Child rushed to hospital after dog attack in Poole

A child was hospitalised after a dog attack in Poole.

Police issue update on 'firearm incident' in Bournemouth

It was reported that one of the men was in possession of a possible firearm and subsequently had left the scene. There were no reports of any injuries.

LIVE: Huge delays on A338 due to crash

There are heavy delays on the A338 due to a crash. We'll bring you updates throughout the evening.

'I'm determined to make the most of the time I have left': Mum given one year to live

A wife and mother who has been given one year to live said her life’s purpose is to make memories with her family.

Three boys charged with raping teenage girl near recreation ground

Three boys have been charged with raping a 14-year-old girl near a recreation ground.

Campaigners say "almost every commoner" has had an animal hit by a car in forest

Every commoner in the New Forest has received a "heart-wrenching" call telling them their animals have been hit by a vehicle, say campaigners

Supermarket temporarily closed after early morning break-in

A SUPERMARKET was temporarily closed after a reported break in during the early hours.

Rare birds from Iceland spotted at Dorset nature reserve

Rare black-tailed godwit birds have been spotted at a Dorset nature reserve

Bournemouth nightclub set to host official Sean Paul after party

A BOURNEMOUTH nightclub has been selected to host the official Sean Paul after party.

Plans unveiled for homes on former builders’ merchant site

Proposals have been unveiled to build 16 homes on a former builders’ merchant site in Lymington

Rare Queen Elizabeth 2p coin on sale for over £30,000

An Oxford resident is selling a rare 2p coin for £30,000 on eBay.

Man stole car keys and took donation box

Daniel Bolton, 36, has been jailed for more than three years after carrying out several burglaries across Hampshire.

Developer appeals decision to refuse permission for two houses in green belt

A housing developer has appealed a decision to refuse planning permission for two homes in the Green Belt

Former police station given approval for continued residential use

A former police station has been approved for continued residential use

‘Give it a go!’ - New Forest woman to abseil down Spinnaker Tower

A woman from the New Forest is planning to abseil down Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth to raise awareness of mental health support.

BetZillion: List of the best UK football betting sites in 2025

With BetZillion's expert selection of the top 10 football betting platforms, you're one step closer to making smarter, safer and more enjoyable bets.

‘A living nightmare’: Family’s statement in full after girl, 9, stabbed three times

The family of a nine-year-old girl who was stabbed three times in an attempted murder has spoken out after the sentencing.

Man who tried to kill nine-year-old girl jailed for 30 years

A man who stabbed a nine-year-old girl in an attempt to kill her has been jailed today.

15-year-old arrested after reportedly ‘threatening person with imitation firearm’

A 15-YEAR-OLD boy has been arrested on suspicion of threatening a person with a ‘firearm’ in Bournemouth.

£5000 warning issued to Nationwide, Lloyds, NatWest and Santander customers

A warning has been issued to households who have less than £5,000 in savings accounts.

Warning to M&S customers over delays to orders amid cyber attack on retail chain

The retailer has apologised after its stores were impacted by a “cyber incident” in recent days.

Man sought by police after antiques stolen in burglary

Police have released CCTV images of a man they want to identify after antiques and ornaments were stolen during a burglary in Poole.

Government

Littering from Vehicles (Offences) Bill

A Bill to increase penalties for civil offences relating to littering from vehicles; to make provision about the use of technology in detecting and identifying persons who have committed such offences; and for connected purposes.

Formula 1

PALMER: Verstappen’s Turn 1 penalty proved decisive in Jeddah, so were the stewards right?

Former F1 driver and F1 TV pundit Jolyon Palmer analyses the key moment in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix...

BEYOND THE GRID: McLaren chief Piers Thynne on the team’s championship transformation and life at Woking

Tom Clarkson’s guest on this week’s Beyond The Grid podcast is McLaren’s Chief Operating Officer, Piers Thynne, who has been with the team since 2008.

GM Performance Power Units approved as F1 power unit supplier

GM Performance Power Units LLC. – founded by TWG Motorsports and General Motors to build powertrains for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team – has been officially approved as an F1 power unit supplier starting in 2029 by the FIA.

‘I need to chill out’ – Norris opens up on early-season mindset as he admits to putting ‘too much pressure on myself’

Lando Norris has openly shared his thoughts and feelings after a rollercoaster Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, admitting that he is applying “a bit too much pressure” on himself to be perfect weekend in, weekend out.

F1: The Academy documentary series to launch on Netflix in May

F1 ACADEMY has announced that F1: The Academy, the highly anticipated documentary series produced by Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, will launch globally on Netflix on May 28, 2025.

Horner hails ‘most competitive race to date’ for Red Bull as he insists 'we were quicker' than McLaren in Jeddah

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner was full of praise for his team for the way they turned the car around in Saudi Arabia, from off the pace on Friday to in the mix for the win on Sunday.

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

Were you paying attention to all the action at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit on the weekend?

Bortoleto ‘didn’t see’ Alonso during close shave in Jeddah as Kick Sauber struggle to take positives from difficult weekend

Grabriel Bortoleto explained his too close for comfort moment with Fernando Alonso at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on a difficult weekend for Kick Sauber.

‘One of my most difficult days in Formula 1’ – Doohan pinpoints area for improvement after challenging Saudi Arabian GP

Jack Doohan is focused on improving his single lap pace after a difficult qualifying in Saudi Arabia saw Alpine attempt an “adventurous” strategy on Sunday.

Windows Central

Elder Scrolls Oblivion remaster surges to the number one spot on Steam, over 100,000 players have entered the gates of Oblivion

It didn't take long after this remaster shadow dropped for over 100,000 players to dive in on Steam. That number will continue to rise by quite a bit.

Shadow dropped or not, you can already save money on The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered for Steam

Several key resellers are already discounting the brand-new Oblivion remaster on Steam, letting you save money just hours after release.

The Oblivion Remaster is already discounted but it's so popular it's crashing deal websites

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remaster just shadow dropped and it seems even our favorite spot for deals, CDKeys has been hit by unprecedented traffic.

I turned my Windows PC into an EdgeBook — Microsoft's web apps were the most glaring issue

I tried turning my PC into an EdgeBook by relying only on Microsoft Edge. The pitfalls of my setup shocked me.

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered buying guide — Which version of the game is right for you?

There's different versions of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered available for purchase, so here's what you need to know.

Is The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered on Xbox Game Pass?

Following an announcement today, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered shadow dropped. So, can you play it on Game Pass?

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered — what's new and different compared to the original, and why is it better?

Bethesda has announced and released the long-awaited remaster of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion, which includes many changes to the original game's visuals and gameplay.

The Division 2 Battle for Brooklyn has a launch date, and it's sooner than you think

After a long delay, we now know when the second DLC for The Division 2 will finally launch, and it's a lot sooner than you might think.

I tested the Hexgears DeathStrike GK760 mechanical keyboard, and it has one tremendous downside

The DeathStrike GK760 from Hexgears is a solid mechanical keyboard for work and playing games, but beware the low-quality hand rest.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 review and Metacritic roundup — Here's what critics say about this gorgeous turn-based RPG

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 reviews are out, and critics are praising the detailed world, story, and art of Sandfall Interactive's first game.

What are haptic touchpads? Here's how they work in Windows laptops and why you should want them in other devices

Haptic touchpads are the upgrade you may not know you need in your next laptop, but they're the future. Here's everything you need to know about haptic touchpads.

Microsoft Copilot is here to save you from having to create PowerPoint slides

Microsoft Copilot can now create slides in PowerPoint based on your Word files or prompts.

5 security features in Windows 11 you should activate before using public Wi-Fi

On Windows 11, you can improve your privacy and security on public Wi-Fi with different features, and I'm sharing my top recommendations.

Oblivion Remastered runs a lot better with DLSS 4 enabled — Here's how to force the override

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered just launched, and its UE5 engine isn't easy on the PC. Here's how RTX owners can force DLSS 4 to improve frame rates.

Hey Sony, take notes! Virtuos' The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion just proved there's more to a great remaster than meets the eye

Bethesda and Virtuos have shown how a proper remaster needs more than pretty visuals. Sony should learn from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.

Microsoft says AI agents will make every employee an "agent boss" — after Bill Gates claimed AI will replace humans in most jobs

Microsoft's Work Trend Index report reveals that 33% of leaders are considering workforce reductions, while 78% aim to hire for more AI roles.

Microsoft brings ChatGPT-4o image generator to Copilot power users — Can it tap into OpenAI's viral "Ghibli" success?

Microsoft just shipped a major overhaul to its Microsoft 365 Copilot app, bringing OpenAI's ChatGPT-4o image generator and an AI-powered search experience to the platform.

Intel to cut over 20,000 employees, says report — and middle managers are on the chopping block

Intel is reportedly laying off over 20,000 employees, with middle management in the spotlight as the company restructures under new CEO Lip-Bu Tan.

Here's how and when to watch The Division 2 Battle for Brooklyn and Year 7 showcase

The long awaited second DLC for The Division 2 is about to get its full reveal, so here's how to watch and when to tune in.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is an Xbox Game Pass triumph that expertly weaves two RPG genres together, and I'm into it

Xbox Game Pass just got one of its biggest 2025 releases with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, but does it live up to the hype? Here's our review.