The News - Thursday, 24 April 2025

BBC News

'Our daughters will be with us', say dads of Southport victims running London Marathon

David Stancombe and Sergio Aguiar tell BBC daughters will be with them in spirit during London race.

Flintoff 'thought he had died' in Top Gear crash

Cricketer-turned-TV host Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff opens up about his car crash for the first time.

'My peanut allergy nearly killed me - now I eat them every day for breakfast'

Just a few years ago, Chris Brookes-Smith could have died from eating peanuts - but taking part in a clinical trial has changed his life.

Kyiv hit by deadly Russian missile and drone attack - mayor

At least nine people are killed and dozens injured in overnight Russian strikes on Ukraine's capital, officials say.

Convicted murderer missing from prison near Dundee

Raymond McCourt was given a life sentence in 1993 for killing a shopkeeper and wounding two other people.

Woman who tricked her way into men-only Magic Circle finally allowed in

Sophie Lloyd disguised herself as a man to join the Magic Circle in 1991, when female magicians were not allowed membership.

Millions of vapes seized in illegal trade crackdown

Single-use vapes are among the main driving forces of the black market, the BBC is told.

Exhausted hospital staff putting patients at risk, says watchdog

NHS safety body wants a focus on staff fatigue as it warns of mistakes and impaired decision-making.

Killers and stalkers should live in restricted zones, say victims

Rhianon Bragg, who was stalked by her ex-partner, felt "trapped" when he was released from prison.

Water firms admit sewage monitoring damaging public trust

The industry says powers to self-monitor water quality should be handed back to the regulator.

'We'll do Paddington proud' - Tom Fletcher reveals details of musical

The McFly star says he is "so lucky and honoured" to have written the music and lyrics for the new show.

The Papers: 'Crimea is lost' and Reeves 'ready to cut tariffs'

Donald Trump's warning to Volodymyr Zelensky and Rachel Reeves's latest trade moves make Thursday's front pages.

Why South Africa and Ukraine are wooing each other - and what will Trump think?

Volodymyr Zelensky is on a historic visit to South Africa to counter Russia's influence on the continent.

Five cards China holds in a trade war with the US

From rare earths to billions in US debt, here's what China has in its arsenal - and how strong they are.

The church Pope Francis kept returning to - and chose as his final resting place

The Pope would visit Santa Maria Maggiore whenever he returned to Rome and chose it as the site of his grave.

How long are people having to wait to take their driving test?

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

Proms go dark: The Traitors and all-night concerts planned for 2025

The programme for the 2025 Proms season is unveiled, with a host of special guests... and Traitors.

Judge orders Scottish schools to provide single-sex toilets

A case was brought against Scottish Borders Council which had installed only gender neutral toilets in a replacement school.

South Korean former leader indicted for bribery

Moon Jae-in was known for his attempts to broker a peace deal with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

BBC reporter asks Trump how Canada's election could influence tariffs

The president avoided predicting who could win the election, but said the US does not need Canada's cars, energy or lumber.

Badenoch denies rift with Jenrick over Reform comments

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

Call to fine 'headphone dodgers' who play music on buses

Lib Dems say fines of up to £1,000 would tackle the "blight" of anti-social behaviour on public transport.

China sends Boeing planes back to US over tariffs

Boeing's boss says it's looking to sell 50 more planes China has on order to other countries.

Flintoff 'thought he had died' in Top Gear crash

Cricketer-turned-TV host Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff opens up about his car crash for the first time.

Crimea is key to Trump's peace plan - here's why Zelensky can't give it up

Ukraine's leader has ruled out recognising Russian control of the peninsula as part of a Trump peace plan.

Harry and Meghan call for stronger social media protections for children

They told the BBC they want to ensure "no more kids are lost to social media" in unveiling a memorial.

UK edges towards post-Brexit youth visa deal with EU

An agreement has emerged as a key European demand in ongoing negotiations for a post-Brexit "reset".

Student killed in French school stabbing attack

At least three people were also injured in the attack in Nantes on Thursday.

Constance Marten tells retrial: We did everything we could to protect baby

Marten also claimed she and Mark Gordon did everything they could to protect their baby.

First evidence of city-sized icebergs found off UK coast

Deep tracks gouged in the seafloor off the coast of Scotland could help us understand Antarctica today.

China tells Trump: If you want trade talks, cancel tariffs

China denies any trade talks with the US as it calls for sweeping tariffs to be cancelled.

We have been eating chocolate digestives wrong for 100 years, McVitie's manager says

The digestive biscuits were originally intended to be eaten with the chocolate side facing down.

Cyber attack causes further chaos for M&S shoppers

Customers have reported problems with click and collect orders as well as card and contactless payments.

'The conclave is intimidating': How it feels to choose a new Pope

Cardinal Vincent Nichols rules himself out of being the next pontiff as he prepares to vote.

Decision on next Pope 'in God's hands' says mourner

New York family describe paying their respects to Pope Francis as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity".

Who is going to the Pope's funeral?

World leaders from Donald Trump to Volodymyr Zelensky will attend the ceremony in St Peter's Square.

Five cards China holds in a trade war with the US

From rare earths to billions in US debt, here's what China has in its arsenal - and how strong they are.

'Our daughters will be with us,' say dads of Southport victims running London Marathon

David Stancombe and Sergio Aguiar tell BBC daughters will be with them in spirit during London race.

Why are people living in the shadow of 'mega-sheds'?

Real estate experts say online shopping is driving demand for more, and often larger, warehouses.

Runcorn by-election battle tests Labour nerves

The by-election on 1 May will also be seen as a measure of the broader political mood that could set the tone in Westminster.

'My peanut allergy nearly killed me - now I eat them every day for breakfast'

Just a few years ago, Chris Brookes-Smith could have died from eating peanuts - but taking part in a clinical trial has changed his life.

If the UK has more renewable energy, why aren't bills coming down?

The government has pledged to reduce energy bills by using more renewables, but bills are currently rising.

Anti-Hamas protests on rise in Gaza as group's iron grip slips

Gazan civilians are losing their fear of Hamas, openly criticising the group on the streets and online.

My friend died from methanol poisoning. Schools must teach dangers of drinking abroad

Bethany Clarke wants more done to educate people about the dangers of bootleg alcohol abroad.

Ed Miliband 'considering' regional energy pricing

Ed Miliband says "zonal pricing" or reformed national pricing are the only available options to overhaul the energy market.

UK bans video game controller exports to Russia

The Foreign Office says Russia was "buying harmless goods and turning them into tools of war".

Paltrow eating bread and pasta after 'hardcore' paleo diet

The actress-turned-health guru says she got a "little bit sick" of her strict diet after many years.

UK lifts sanctions on Syrian defence ministry

Restrictions are also being eased on the financial services and energy sectors to help investment.

Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists

It comes after Delhi's retaliatory measures following a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists.

Police watchdog complains to Ofcom over BBC's Panorama on Chris Kaba

The Chris Kaba episode initially aired without the IOPC's response to claims made by an ex-employee.

Bournemouth Echo

Neighbours complain about 'grunting' and 'chatting' from at home pole dancing studio

A fitness instructor has upset her well-heeled neighbours in Christchurch by setting up a pole dancing studio at her home.

Burglar allegedly stole falcons before removing its feathers, head and leg

A BURGLAR allegedly stole falcons and their eggs from aviaries before removing their feathers, head and leg.

"Running this restaurant is hard work and we want to give back to our customers"

Running a top Indian is hard work, a restauranteur has said, but it’s the customers that make it rewarding.

New support centre opens its doors for residents

The Welcome Lounge is part of a larger initiative across Dorset to make wellbeing support more accessible.

Chip shop of the Year 2025 competition: Halfway Fish Bar

All their fish is MSC certified and their oil is from sustainable sources and changed daily to ensure a fresh taste every time.

Purbeck man to run nine marathons in under two weeks

"I definitely feel a lot better than I was, although it’s still an ongoing journey, which is why running really helps."

Day of remembrance for fishermen lost at sea to be held in Poole

"This year our service will feature music many will know, all the songs reflect the industry and one of the most dangerous peacetime occupations."

New headteacher appointed at Dorset prep school

"We are very much looking forward to welcoming Dominic, Maria and their family to the Bryanston community."

Police still awaiting forensic results in care home deaths probe

Police are still awaiting forensic results after three residents were found dead at a care home in Swanage last autumn.

Town mayor and military officer swap plaques after special honour

This civic honour acknowledges the squadron's service and connection to the community.

6 pets at RSPCA Dorset who are searching for their forever homes

The RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre in Ringwood and the West Dorset RSPCA branch in Dorchester have several pets looking for new homes

'Bring pride and joy back to Christchurch'

Having returned to Christchurch in October 2021 after 20 years of living in Malaga I was saddened to see the state of the High Street: businesses closed, dirty, prideless and visited by depressed citizens.

Woman creates sustainable floral displays to remember loved ones

A woman from Bournemouth is helping local people to celebrate their loved ones memories with unique and creative displays.

Testing continues after weak concrete found at shopping centre

ASSESSMENTS of the Dolphin centre’s structure are continuing after Raac was found in part of the building.

'I am so upset to read that my treasured Bournemouth destination may close'

So much has been invested making the site welcoming, warm and cosy in the winter and a flowery showerproof garden in the summer.

New project could see earlier cancer diagnosis for patients

Diagnosis of this cancer can often be late, especially in women and survival rates are as low as ten per cent.

Popular car show with 'something for everyone' to return

The event will also feature live performances from The Bournemouth Carnival Band, The Land Girls and the Just Sing Choir.

PietraCasa to open new tile showroom in Poole, Dorset

This will be followed by wood fire cooking, cocktails and Italian dishes from 5pm, courtesy of Milanese chef Umberto Zanassi and his team.

Community 'heathwatch' scheme launched to protect Dorset heaths

Dorset Police, in conjunction with the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, will be conducting regular patrols of the heaths throughout the summer.

Bournemouth man, 43, to run London Marathon after losing 11 stone

They will be raising money for Cancer Research UK, the Irish Cancer Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, Slimming World’s official charity partners.

'They’re going to love it': Dorset holiday park upgrades facilities

The new design features exposed reclaimed timber clad ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as a new terrace area with festoon lighting and a heated canopy.

Military bases awarded millions in funding for decarbonisation projects

This will help the MOD reach its net zero commitments and provide energy cost savings.

Clifftop derelict buildings to be replaced with ten coastal homes

The homes are set to replace what was described as a collection of 'derelict buildings with no architectural merit.'

Rick Stein's Sandbanks restaurant launches new bar menu

The new menu at the restaurant overlooking Poole Harbour includes sushi rolls, tacos, tempura, burgers, poke bowls and salads.

Quiz night at football club to be hosted by town mayor

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the town mayor's chosen charities, Planet Wimborne and Victoria Hospital, Wimborne.

Exhibition to showcase work of Bournemouth interns

SAMEE charity, which stands for Support and Mentoring Enabling Entrepreneurship, is dedicated to helping disabled people start their own businesses.

New Forest singer-songwriter, 18, to release debut EP

The EP includes the title track Space In Between, Danny’s Song, Growing Pains, Counting to Three and Island.

Care provider recognised for 'groundbreaking' campaign

It also partnered with hospitals, GP surgeries and organisations across Dorset to provide on-the-ground support.

Dog-friendly event to take place at Bournemouth bar

Attendees will be able to see up to 50 dachshunds per session, with photo opportunities and props available.

Neil Diamond tribute show coming to Wimborne theatre

"While Neil Diamond may have declared the end of his touring days, his star will continue to shine eternally."

Ceremony to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day in New Milton

The last post will be played by Richard Warren and a two-minute silence will be observed at 11am.

Bournemouth University: Current water safety messages not effective

This innovative approach aims to identify which types of messages elicit emotional engagement and potentially influence safer decisions around water.

Strictly star and vicar Richard Coles to perform in Bournemouth

His multifaceted career and unique personality have made him a beloved figure in the UK.

Picnic with live music to mark 80th anniversary of VE Day

Residents are encouraged to bring their picnic blankets and snacks to enjoy the day.

Museum unveils pop-up exhibition in honour of VE Day

The exhibition includes photographs of the Air Raid Precautions unit and Wimborne’s Home Guard.

Dorset Council named top recycling authority in England

"Together, we can set the benchmark for environmental stewardship and make a positive impact for future generations."

Talks to celebrate Thomas Hardy's 185th birth anniversary

Attendees will gain fresh perspectives on Hardy's life and works, exploring the various influences that shaped his literature.

New initiative launched to make town centre more accessible to older people

An INITIATIVE has launched to make the town more accessible, appealing and welcome to older people in BCP area.

Popular night life venue announces closure but will reopen following refurb

POPULAR late-night venue has closed its doors to the public.

Insect found in 'soggy and vile' burger at well-known restaurant

A FAMILY from Bournemouth had an unpleasant experience on Friday night after they found an insect in their meal.

'Flames shooting out of man holes' following underground fire

Emergency services have closed a busy road in Parkstone following an incident, with police and fire crews at the scene.

Underground fire sends manhole covers 'flying into the air'

An underground fire sent manhole covers “flying into the air,” prompting a major emergency response, a road closure and power outages.

Cyclists with knife threaten and spit at motorists

Motorists were threatened with a knife and spat at by men on bikes in Parkwood Road, Bournemouth.

15-year-old boy charged with possession of an imitation firearm

A 15-year-old boy has been charged following the imitation firearms incident that took place in St Swithun's Road, Bournemouth.

'Fantastic' picture shows 'vanishing' sea birds at Dorset coastal beauty spot

A 'fantastic' picture of 'vanishing' Dorset puffins has been taken at a Dorset beauty spot.

A31 blocked after reports of accident

A31 Ringwood Road westbound partially blocked after reports of an accident, delays and slow traffic to be expected.

Gypsy and traveller site for summer approved at former army camp

A GYPSY and traveller site for up to 25 units for 'temporary' summer use only has been approved at the former Piddlehinton army camp.

Pension changes could help workers scoop up smaller pension pots - here's how

Pension changes could help workers scoop up smaller pension pots, which could otherwise get lost

Last chance to see historical meteor shower forming 'glowing trails' in the sky

Brits have one last chance to see the Lyrids meteor shower in the UK this week - the oldest recorded meteor shower forms 'glowing trails' - how to see.

NatWest issues update to customers after announcing bank closures

A warning has been issued to anyone banking with NatWest in May 2025.

Thousands join Nationwide, Lloyds and NatWest, with bonuses of up to £175

More than one million bank account switches have taken place in the past year, with many benefitting from joining bonuses of up to £175

Martin Lewis shares free railcard trick, that can save travellers hundreds

Free railcards are among the bonuses available for customers in this clever trick, shared by Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis

Government

Interpersonal Abuse and Violence Against Men and Boys (Strategy) Bill

A Bill to require the Secretary of State to prepare and publish a strategy for tackling interpersonal abuse and violence against men and boys; and for connected purposes.

Chalk Streams (Sewerage Investment) Bill

A Bill to require water companies to prioritise areas with chalk streams and related habitats when investing in new and upgraded sewerage systems, including foul water leak prevention and the replacement or upgrading of porous sewage pipelines; and for connected purposes.

Formula 1

Horner repeats message over Verstappen’s future as he stresses ‘we win and we lose together’

Christian Horner has doubled down on his comments over Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 future, insisting that the reigning four-time World Champion’s focus “is here” at Red Bull Racing.

Bayer admits Lawson left ‘sad and puzzled' by Red Bull seat swap as he predicts New Zealand driver 'will be back and he will be quick'

Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer believes Liam Lawson will soon rediscover his form, predicting the New Zealander “will be back and he will be quick”.

‘I was very proud on the pit wall’ – Stella recalls crucial moment of teamwork between Norris and Piastri’s Race Engineers in Jeddah

McLaren may have two drivers fighting for the World Championship title, but Team Principal Andrea Stella detailed a pit wall moment between the two camps at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix that gave him a swell of pride.

Doohan praises Alpine for removing pressure around his future with the team

Jack Doohan has hailed the efforts of Alpine to remove pressure from him, after rumours that he would be dropped from the team swirled before a wheel had been turned this season.

Vasseur calls for Ferrari to be more ‘consistent’ as he highlights where team needs to improve

Fred Vasseur has called for more consistency from Ferrari following the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, as Charles Leclerc grabbed the team's first Grand Prix podium of the season in Jeddah.

Windows Central

This beloved Oblivion meme got remade 7 years later, proving Oblivion Remastered preserves the timeless comedy of the original

Oblivion Remastered may have updated the RPG's graphics and combat significantly, but this recreation of a silly moment proves it still has the original's spirit.

Does The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered support cross saves?

Bethesda has shadow-dropped the long-awaited remaster of The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion, but does this reimagined classic support cross saves?

For OpenAI to win, Google must lose Chrome — making ChatGPT "a better product with a really incredible experience"

OpenAI’s ChatGPT chief Nick Turley indicated that integrating Chrome into ChatGPT would furnish users with a "really incredible experience.”

Assassin's Creed Shadows is the best-selling game of March 2025 in the US

Assassin's Creed Shadows is the best-selling game of March 2025 in the U.S, according to the latest Circana sales data.

"This is everything I've ever dreamed of." I can't believe Oblivion Remastered players already have it working in VR — here's the mod they're using

Did you know it's possible to play Oblivion Remastered in VR with a mod? Here's which one it is, and how it works, too.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is now available on LG TVs, letting players stream games like The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

As previously promised, certain LG TVs now support Xbox Cloud Gaming through the Xbox app.

Microsoft Edge may be getting a redesigned New Tab Page powered by Copilot

Hidden flags in the latest Edge Canary builds reveal a New Tab Page experience that has been redesigned with Copilot at the very heart of the experience.

6 first world Windows 11 problems I desperately want Microsoft to fix

Small and unimportant details are just as big a deal as significant game-breaking issues, and Microsoft often makes some small but noticeable design choices that annoy me. Here are six of them in Windows 11.

Overwatch 2 Stadium Mode — Best Juno Builds: Best items, powers, and gameplay tips

Playing Juno in Overwatch Stadium Mode? You'll need these builds.

Frostpunk 1886 is a reimagining of the original game, and it's coming in 2027

11 bit studios is reimagining the original Frostpunk with Frostpunk 1886, a game that's coming in 2027.

Intel Arc graphics driver brings support for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered to desktop PCs and Core Ultra laptop GPUs

Intel's new Arc "Game On" driver 32.0.101.6737 supports The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered and recent Game Pass hit "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" on PC.

Xbox just made the best console version of Forza Horizon 5 yet — for the PS5 Pro

The PS5 port of Forza Horizon 5 is almost here, and it looks like the PS5 Pro optimized version will take the console crown.

Xbox Game Pass is having its most insane quarter ever — with more games and variety than ever — and gamers are starting to notice

Xbox Game Pass is having an absolutely insane quarter, and it'll be interesting to see if Microsoft shares stats when the next quarterly earning report drops.

I've fallen in love with this stunning 5K monitor and its built-in KVM switch — it's ideal for my creative projects

I tested this 27-inch ProArt 5K monitor for three weeks, and its gorgeous color gamut tackled a wide range of creations — it's not perfect, but I love it.

PC shipments spike as Windows 10's end and U.S. tariffs loom

Global PC shipments rose sharply in Q1 2025, driven by the end of Windows 10 support and uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and international trade.

A Minecraft Movie has set a record in the UK that will take some beating — it's all thanks to "Steve's Lava Chicken"

Steve's Lava Chicken has hit the UK Top 40 chart and in the process has set a record that will take some beating.

Apple Intelligence page no longer reads "Available Now" — I wonder if Apple has lost faith in its AI strategy after so many delays?

Apple reportedly scrapped the "Available Now" from Apple Intelligence's page late last month, suggesting the company anticipated backlash for its delayed AI.

Laffgaff

What musical features the songs ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘Easy Street’?

Annie.

Sailing Enthusiast

It's okay to be a bit enthusiastic about sailing. Just don't go overboard.

Itsfoss

FOSS Weekly #25.17: Ubuntu 25.04 and Fedora 42 Release Follow-ups, Logseq, ZimaBoard and More

Continue to explore Fedora and Ubuntu releases.