The News - Friday, 02 May 2025

BBC News

When will we know all the results?

Results are due for 23 councils across England, six mayoral contests and a by-election in Runcorn and Helsby.

Tracking a smuggler behind deadly Atlantic migrant crossing

BBC Verify tracks a man accused of selling places on a migrant boat which left dozens dead after getting lost at sea.

War in Ukraine not ending 'any time soon', Vance says

The US vice-president says it is still up to Russia and Ukraine to end the "brutal" conflict.

Lynx could be first UK zoo-born cat freed into the wild

It has been moved to Germany's Black Forest in preparation for its release

British woman killed in France was lovely person, says husband

Karen Carter, 65, was found with stab wounds in Trémolat in the Dordogne on Tuesday evening.

Shein and Temu prices rise as Trump closes postage loophole

The de minimis exemption was key to the huge growth of the Chinese online retailers.

Streeting accused of 'betrayal' over maternity funding plan

Campaigners say the move will “rip the heart out of any moves to improve maternity safety”.

Trump ousts Waltz as national security adviser and nominates him for UN post

Mike Waltz had faced criticism for mistakenly adding a journalist to a chat group where sensitive military plans were discussed.

Two Gazan girls first to arrive in UK for medical treatment

The children have been granted temporary visas to receive private medical treatment in the UK.

Vets may face caps on cremations and other charges

The regulator is considering a range of measures to limit vets bills including price caps.

How to follow throughout the day on the BBC

BBC News is on on hand to keep you up-to-date with the latest developments across all platforms.

Four ways the film Conclave sheds light on the secretive way popes are chosen

The Bafta award-winning film gives viewers a window into a "highly secret and a deeply private process".

Talks or no talks: who blinks first in US-China trade war?

Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are locked in a game of chicken - despite wanting the same outcome.

Weekly quiz: Which famous couple spent their wedding anniversary here?

How much attention did you pay to what has been going on in the world over the past seven days?

The Papers: Weight loss jabs 'at the chemist' and 'hottest' May

Weight-loss injections will be available over the counter and a heatwave arrives in the UK.

Donald Trump is looming over Australia's election

Foreign policy is rarely a big factor in Australia's poll - but the US president has changed that.

Charles Darwin to Doctor Who: Famous faces come to life in art show

Famous faces feature in the first immersive exhibition to use one of Britain's national art collections.

Ros Atkins on... What's in the US-Ukraine resources deal?

The BBC's analysis editor looks at what has been agreed in the much-anticipated agreement.

Apple says most US-bound iPhones no longer made in China

The technology giant says US tariffs will add around $900m to its costs this quarter.

British woman, 115, becomes world's oldest person

Ethel Caterham, who lives in Lightwater in Surrey, is 115 and 252 days.

Hottest ever start to May in UK as temperatures hit 29C

The mercury hit 29C in London, which the Met Office said was the hottest start to any May on record.

Ground-breaking musician Jill Sobule dies in house fire

Her song I Kissed a Girl is widely considered the first openly gay-themed song to crack the Billboard Top 20.

Israel fires largely controlled after mass evacuations

A national emergency was declared and events for Israel's Independence Day on Thursday were cancelled as the fires spread near Jerusalem.

Prince Harry tells BBC he wants reconciliation with royals but King will not speak to him

In an exclusive interview in California, the Duke of Sussex says he can't see a world where his family will visit the UK after he lost his security legal challenge.

Watch: Prince Harry 'can't see a world' where his family will visit the UK

The Duke of Sussex says the downgrading of taxpayer-funded protection makes visiting the UK too risky.

Watch: Key moments from the local elections so far... in 100 seconds

From a recount in Runcorn to a change of council control in Staffordshire, see what's been happening so far.

Sycamore Gap accused claims 'best pal' did it

Daniel Graham claims his co-accused felled the world famous tree and asked him to take the blame.

Princess Charlotte photo released to mark 10th birthday

The picture was taken by her mother, the Princess of Wales, during a trip to Cumbria earlier this year.

Russell Brand granted bail after court appearance over rape and sexual assault charges

The broadcaster, comedian and actor faces charges of rape, sexual assault and indecent assault.

Activists say ship aiming to sail to Gaza was attacked by drones

The incident happened off the coast of Malta. The government said a fire onboard the ship was "brought under control overnight".

Constance Marten tells jury she worried she would be seen as 'evil mother'

Constance Marten and Mark Gordon deny charges of manslaughter by gross negligence and causing or allowing the death of a child.

Co-op gives away free pasta sauce and coffee by mistake

The pricing error allowed some shoppers to get pasta sauce, coffee and cookies for free.

Grand Theft Auto 6 delayed until May 2026

It's the news no-one wanted to hear - Grand Theft Auto 6's release date has been pushed back to next year.

Sir John Curtice: Reform are challenging traditional party dominance

Though some of the results are still to be reported, Reform are clearly the winners of Thursday's local elections.

Chris Mason: Bruised Tories and Labour left working out how to tackle Reform

Nigel Farage's party shows it is an equal opportunities threat to Labour and the Tories in local polls.

What's happened in elections so far and what's still to come?

Reform UK wins its first Parliamentary by-election and makes gains in council elections.

Henry Zeffman: Reform UK wins Runcorn, but what comes next for the party?

Henry Zeffman: Reform UK wins Runcorn, but what comes next?

Trump disliked Trudeau. Here's why Carney may fare better

Mark Carney's ascent as Canada's new prime minister offers a chance for a reset in the US-Canada relationship.

Community kitchens in Gaza warn food is running out after two months of Israeli blockade

Many Palestinians depend on community kitchens, but one says they have only two weeks of supplies left.

Can this lynx born in a zoo learn to live in the wild?

It has been moved to Germany's Black Forest in preparation for its release

How the BBC tracked a people smuggler behind deadly Atlantic migrant crossing

BBC Verify tracks a man accused of selling places on a migrant boat which left dozens dead after getting lost at sea.

Evacuations in Chile and Argentina after tsunami warning

A 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck off of Chile's southern coast on Friday morning.

Germany's AfD classified as extreme-right by country's intelligence service

The AfD came second in Germany's February elections and has a record number of seats in the new parliament.

Husband says family shocked after 'lovely' wife found dead in France

Karen Carter, 65, was found with stab wounds in Trémolat in the Dordogne region on Tuesday evening.

South African woman guilty of kidnapping and trafficking daughter aged 6

Joshlin Smith's disappearance last year sent shockwaves across South Africa. She is yet to be found.

Diddy rejects plea deal in sex trafficking trial

The musician could have received a reduced sentence if he'd accepted an offer to plea guilty.

Bournemouth Echo

What is happening on the 80th anniversary of VE Day next week?

Monday, May 5 is designated for street parties, picnics, and barbecues, with many expected to join the "Great British Food Festival."

Chance to have your say on Swanage seafront plans

The major stabilisation works are intended to address the ongoing ground movement across the Green Seafront.

Man smashed into store to attack own father on Father’s Day

A MAN smashed his way into a store to attack his own father in a drunken rage on Father’s Day, a court heard.

Chips Ahoy! shortlisted for Fish and Chips of the Year

We are very honoured to be nominated in the running for number one chip shop in the area!

The 16th century house with a long history and incredible architecture

Breamore House's history dates back to the 16th century, and it remains a private residence today.

Historic country pub to close for significant revamp

The investment will see major improvements to the pub's exterior, including a refurbished outdoor area with new garden furniture and lighting.

School eco squad collects five bags of litter from New Forest

The school is also inviting people to join its third Big Book Giveaway at the Ringwood Eco Fair on Saturday, May 10.

MP campaigns to ban disposable barbecues after heath fires

An MP has launched a petition calling for a nationwide ban on disposable barbecues, citing environmental and safety concerns.

Stunt bikes and dream cars at Tank Museum bank holiday event

The event will showcase Urban Display's exhilarating cycling stunts and Sporting Bears Motor Club's classic and sports car collection.

The Dorset postcodes that scooped prizes in the Postcode Lottery last month

A few postcodes across Dorset won prizes in the People's Postcode lottery in April 2025, including in Bournemouth and Poole

What is the weather like in BCP for the bank holiday weekend?

The Met Office has not issued any weather warnings for the area.

Police operation tackles illegal poaching and hare coursing

"This demonstrates that our tactics and operations are working, and we are continually committed to reducing rural crime across the county."

Clue in search for knifeman led to old airport

RYDE airport has long been consigned to the archives but it was once the centre of a massive police manhunt for an armed robber who tied up a terrified woman and her daughter.

Spellbinding trail inspired by local legends of dragons and fairies set to open

A new trail celebrating New Forest folklore is set to open in Beaulieu

RuPaul's Drag Race star to perform at Bournemouth Pier

The drag queen, who made a name for herself in season five of the UK show, is famed for her vocals, wit and costumes.

Poole firm expands with new services and team members

Rachel Hadfield is the new growth and marketing manager and Kelly Tilsed takes on the role of admin assistant.

Man speaks about 'relentless' task of being full-time carer for wife

It affects the body's nervous system and affects people's cognition, movement and behaviour until the individual becomes dependent on the help of others.

Southbourne artist to host exhibition to raise money for food bank

The event will "reintroduce" Ms Lemon to the community and generate funds for Sobo Foodbank.

Mowlem makes key appointment in ongoing transformation

"We are delighted that Kate has accepted this post as she will bring new perspectives of production, direction and fundraising to the Mowlem."

Restaurant to host special event on bank holiday Monday

There will be music and a buy one, get one free offer on select menu items.

Soulful singer-songwriter to perform at Lighthouse Poole

Namvula's songs reflect the influence of her Zambian and Scottish heritage as well as her diasporic upbringing.

Antiques experts to provide on-the-spot valuations

Attendees are encouraged to bring photographs of furniture items for assessment.

Traction engine to tour around Dorset this summer

"This is a unique opportunity to see Dorset's very own treasure, the Hayden Princess, steaming proudly once again."

Bournemouth teacher publishes book tackling bullying

The book was illustrated by Emma Watremetz and Elana Evans, students at Arts University Bournemouth.

Dorset charity says £1 spent on advocacy saves £12 in care costs

The report concluded that groups like PFD empower individuals to understand their rights and make confident decisions.

'Up-and-coming' magazine sells out at launch of tenth volume

It has recently expanded to cover all of Dorset, with plans to further develop after becoming its own company this month.

Bournemouth care home marks first anniversary of initiative

Susan, whose husband was a resident, added: "This café is a place where families meet up and friendships are made."

Poole Pride 2025 After Party to feature top drag artists

The Pecs Drag Kings will follow with their "sexy, raucous and highly entertaining" show.

Electricity company invites applications to £3 million fund

These could include electric vehicle chargers, solar panels, battery storage or low-carbon heating systems.

Giant model of fish created by student to highlight overfishing

The project aimed to explore the historical significance of the Atlantic cod to the people of Poole and the impact of overfishing on its size.

Care homes to host 1940s-themed events to mark VE Day

Three care homes are hosting 1940s-themed events to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

In The Dock: Thief banned from all Co-op stores in England and Wales

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

D-Day veterans sailing from Poole to commemorate 81st anniversary next month

A group of D-Day veterans are setting sail to Normandy from Poole next month as part of the day’s 81st anniversary commemorations.

Businesses say multiple road closures signs are putting customers off

BUSINESS owners are expressing frustration over ongoing road closures throughout the town, which they say are leading to a significant loss of trade.

Viral book business to open shop in 'stunning location'

The Mysterious Bookcase, a book company that 'blew up' on social media has decided to open its own store in Westbourne Arcade.

Two-vehicle crash closes road and causes long delays

A car crash on the A31 near Ashley Heath has blocked a lane, causing long delays.

Forensic teams examine scene of hit-and-run e-bike crash

A FORENSIC investigation is underway after a serious crash involving an e-bike in Bournemouth.

Tributes to 'adored' nine-year-old killed in crash

A heartbreaking tribute has been paid to a nine-year-old boy who died in a crash caused by his “reckless” mother.

Detectives ask for extra evidence in 'man flashing boy' case

POLICE are now asking for extra evidence as they continue to investigate an incident in which a man flashed a boy. 

'This is not America' judge tells man who built revolver at home

Robert Wiseman from New Milton built a revolver at home as his interest in firearms escalated

LIVE: Russell Brand arrives at court to face rape and sexual assault charges

Comedian and actor Russell Brand has arrived at Westminster Magistrates' Court to face rape and sexual assault charges.

Police investigate crash that left car on its roof on A31

The cause of a car crash which left a car on its roof is being investigated.

Man arrested for lewd behaviour on train station platform

A man was arrested at Hamworthy train station on Thursday after allegedly performing an indecent act in public and being found in possession of suspected Class A and Class B drugs.

Fond farewell to the couple at the helm of an iconic New Forest pub

Mel and Nick Cross, who ran iconic New Forest pub The Sir Walter Tyrrell for seven years, have retired.

Dog walkers reminded that beach restrictions apply

Dogwalkers are reminded that their pets are not allowed on certain Dorset beaches during the summer period

Mother who killed nine-year-old son in crash to be sentenced

A mother who killed her nine-year-old son in a crash is due to be sentenced

Review: Ocean Colour Scene at the O2 Academy, Bournemouth

There was minimal chat, but the crowd did not seem to mind when treated to Profit In Peace followed by a rousing version of Hundred Mile High City.

Man carried out four sexual assaults over 11-month period

A New Forest man has admitted carrying out four sexual assaults in Southampton between May 2023 and April 2024

Councillor says parking charges harming high street businesses

A council leader has criticised parking charges in Lymington for harming businesses in the high street.

Anti-abortionist sent pictures of foetuses and dead holocaust victims to police

An anti-abortionist sent vile images purporting to be aborted foetuses and dead victims of the holocaust.

Mystery surrounds discovery of human remains as inquest opens into unidentified male

AN inquest has opened into the death of an unidentified male whose remains were found in a wooded area in Bournemouth

Mercedes fire was deliberate, police say

POLICE have said a car fire in Blandford was started deliberately.

Charity event to feature award winning Elvis tribute

A fundraising event featuring an Elvis Presley tribute is coming to Broadstone.

Mother ‘racing and speeding’ killed son after crashing into lorry

A MOTHER ‘racing and speeding’ along a road killed her nine-year-old son while overtaking on a blind bend and crashing into a lorry.

Two people arrested for alleged conspiracy to murder after e-bike crash

Hit and run leaves man with life-changing injuries as woman and boy arrested for conspiracy to murder.

Peter Andre to star in tribute show at BIC

PETER Andre is set to perform at Bournemouth International Centre in a new tribute show celebrating the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

People rescued after drifting towards chain ferry in broken-down boat

People were rescued after drifting towards the chain ferry on a small boat.

Russell Brand allegedly raped woman in Bournemouth hotel following Labour conference

Comedian and actor Russell Brand allegedly raped a woman in a hotel room when she attended a Labour Party conference, a court heard.

Certain iPhones to be locked out of WhatsApp from Monday - devices affected

Certain iPhones will be left unable to access WhatsApp from Monday (May 5) - find out why and see the full list of devices affected.

Parents have just days to apply for free card that could save thousands

Parents have just days left to apply for essential healthcare cover ahead of the school summer holidays, with Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC.

'Important discovery' as rare spider that is 'master of disguise' spotted in UK

A rare spider described as a "master of disguise" has been sighted in Cornwall, an expert says.

The changes Universal Credit and PIP claimants might see in their accounts today

Universal Credit, State Pensions, Child Benefit, PIP and other benefits may be affected by changes due to the two May bank holidays

All the DWP pension changes to payments for May 2025

Millions of people may see changes to their DWP State Pension and Pension Credit payments this month, due to two bank holidays.

'Flower Moon' set to 'bloom' in UK skies this month - when you can see it

Here's the exact day and time that the 'Flower Moon' is set to appear in UK skies this May - how you can see it.

Lidl issues warning to customers ahead of May bank holidays

Lidl customers have also been told to expect busier supermarkets on Saturday, as is often the case on Bank Holiday weekends

7 speed camera myths debunked that all drivers need to be aware of

Here are some speed camera myths you might want to consider when next out travelling on the roads.

Russell Brand accused of raping woman in Bournemouth set to be heard in court

RAPE and sexual assault case against Russell Brand is set to be heard in court today.

Family of teenager killed by carbon monoxide raise thousands for charity

THE family of a "one of a kind" teenager who died by carbon monoxide poisoning have raised more than £4,000 for charity ahead of a memorial mountain climb.

Formula 1

WEEKEND WARM-UP: Piastri the favourite but Norris looking to bounce back as F1 lands in the US for the first time this year

The F1 circus has crossed the pond and pitched up at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami ahead of the sixth race weekend of the season.

Championship leader Piastri ‘enjoys’ being the hunted as he identifies biggest threat in Miami

Oscar Piastri has insisted he “quite enjoys” being the hunted rather than the hunter as Formula 1’s current Drivers’ Championship leader, as it means “he is doing something right”.

Sainz shares challenge of adapting to different teams as he and Hamilton get to grips with life at Williams and Ferrari

Carlos Sainz has shared some first-hand insight into what Formula 1 drivers experience when they change teams, amid the media interest over his and Lewis Hamilton’s respective adaptations to Williams and Ferrari.

PADDOCK INSIDER: Norris needs to find his sweet spot again as Piastri leads the standings – Miami could be the ideal place to do it

Whenever you ask Lando Norris about his maiden Grand Prix victory in Miami last year, his face immediately lights up. The 25-year-old always hoped he could achieve the feat – but he is the kind of person who needs to see it to believe it and that win in Miami, beating his friend and rival Max Verstappen to boot, ticked that box nicely.

Hamilton ‘definitely working hard to adjust’ to Ferrari as he sets out goal for Miami Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton has admitted that he is “definitely working hard to adjust” to the Ferrari as he enters into his sixth race weekend for the team in Miami, one in which the seven-time World Champion is aiming to replicate team mate Charles Leclerc’s success last time out in Saudi Arabia.

FIA Thursday press conference – Miami

The drivers face the press ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix weekend.

Norris outlines area for improvement in Miami as he explains why he’s ‘not worried’ about Piastri taking championship momentum

Lando Norris has admitted that he is aiming to improve his Qualifying performance off the back of two difficult Saturdays at the last two Grands Prix, with the Briton also insisting that he is “not worried” about team mate Oscar Piastri taking momentum as the new championship leader.

The storylines to watch out for as the F1 ACADEMY season heats up in Miami

Two rounds down, five to go and the halfway point is fast approaching, but there’s no rest for the class of 2025 as F1 ACADEMY returns to the streets of Miami.

AS IT HAPPENED: Follow all the build-up ahead of the Miami Grand Prix weekend

Live coverage of all the build-up ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix weekend.

LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from first practice for the Miami Grand Prix

Live coverage of Friday's first practice session for the 2025 Miami Grand Prix.

Formula 1 to race in Miami until 2041 as new extension agreed

Formula 1 has announced that the Miami Grand Prix will remain on the calendar through 2041, following a 10-year extension to its existing agreement with the promoter South Florida Motorsports – a new deal that will make Miami the longest contracted event on the F1 calendar.

Russell expands on Mercedes’ prospects in Miami as he suggests Silver Arrows now ‘third fastest team’ despite P2 in championship

George Russell has admitted that there are some question marks over how Mercedes might perform at this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, with the Briton also suggesting that the team are currently “third fastest” despite holding second place in the championship.

Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet announce birth of baby ahead of Miami Grand Prix

MUST-SEE: All the liveries, special helmet designs and snazzy looks for Miami

Miami is the first of three races in the USA, and the teams have not disappointed when it comes to marking the occasion with special liveries - while the drivers have also stepped up to the plate with their helmet designs.

‘It just needs more time’ – Tsunoda explains ‘not easy’ process of adapting to Red Bull’s RB21

Yuki Tsunoda has revealed where he is currently at in terms of adapting to the Red Bull RB21, with the Japanese driver admitting that the process “needs more time” despite being happy with the progress he has made so far.

F1 STORE: The ultimate Miami style guide

The Miami Grand Prix is one of the biggest races on the F1 calendar for both sport and style. In the build-up to the race weekend, we’ve seen a flurry of livery reveals, special edition race suits and, most importantly, new and exclusive merch drops. From sunset hues to streetwear staples, our Miami edit showcases the best new pieces to build out your F1 wardrobe…

Leclerc assesses where Ferrari stack up in Miami as he has 'one goal in mind’

Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari still doesn’t have the potential to fight McLaren or Red Bull but isn’t letting that alter his targets at this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.

Windows Central

Love Metaphor: ReFantazio? HYTE has a new PC case and accessories for you.

Metaphor: ReFantazio was a 2024 smash hit, and HYTE is acknowledging its popularity (and awesome artwork) with some new themed hardware and accessories.

"Even though I worked on Oblivion Remastered, I'm still excited for Skyblivion." Bethesda dev shouts out huge Oblivion remake mod coming later this year

In a new developer spotlight video, one of Bethesda's lead Oblivion Remastered devs has given the ambitious Skyblivion mod project a big shoutout.

Monitor not paper-y enough? A 25-inch color E Ink monitor just dropped for *checks notes* $1,900

BOOX has released a color version of its unique Mira Pro monitor, a 25.3-inch E Ink display unlike anything else out there. Oh, and it's only $1,900.

Will Microsoft charge for Windows security updates starting in July? Yes, but for Windows Server 2025, not Windows 11.

Microsoft’s new $1.50-per-core fee applies only to Windows Server 2025, not Windows 11, despite misleading headlines circulating online.

The Epic Games Store is about to get two huge new features following new court victory over Apple — here's what's coming

Immediately after scoring a big win against Apple in court, Epic Games has announced plans to add two major features to the Epic Games Store this summer.

Take a private theater with you everywhere with the best price ever on our favorite AR glasses

The XREAL Air 2 and Air 2 Pro AR glasses can be obtained at their lowest price ever for a few more days, thanks to an Amazon deal on these excellent AR glasses.

"You are a shining example of French audacity and creativity." Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 praised by French President Emmanuel Macron

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's success has even drawn the attention of French President Emmanuel Macron, who praised the developers on Instagram.

Now GTA 6 has been delayed into 2026, what's your most hyped game for the rest of 2025? — Weekend Discussion 💬

With the big GTA 6 release out of the way, every other game developer breathes a sigh of relief. So what are you hyped to play instead later this year?

Grand Theft Auto VI delay causes Take-Two shares to drop, while CEO Strauss Zelnick assures investors that everything is fine

Take-Two Interactive (TTWO) shares dropped in pre-market trading today after Rockstar Games announced a launch delay for Grand Theft Auto VI.

GTA 6's delay just blew wide open the race for Game of the Year

Rockstar's decision to delay GTA 6 to 2026 has left the 2025 Game of the Year race wide open. With the industry's biggest contender out of the way, several standout titles are now fighting for the coveted award.

How to use File History on Windows 11 to protect your documents with backups

On Windows 11, you can still use File History to create a backup of your files to protect your data from accidental deletion, editing, and damage, and in this guide, I'll explain how to configure and use the feature.

Satya Nadella says Microsoft's AI model performance is "doubling every 6 months", despite the estranged OpenAI partnership

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella indicated that the company's AI model performance is "doubling every six months" due to pre-training, inference, and system design.

Grand Theft Auto 6 has been DELAYED — will now miss 2025 launch window entirely

Rockstar Games has announced a fairly significant delay to GTA 6, which now won't launch in 2025 at all.

Microsoft could bring Elon Musk's Grok AI model to Azure — Cozying up with OpenAI's arch-nemesis xAI for its AI Foundry

Microsoft is reportedly planning to host Elon Musk's Grok AI model. However, it won't host xAI's servers to train any of its future AI models.

Microsoft Bing is stealing tens of millions of Google's search users according to the latest data

Despite the memes about Bing's search quality, it seems Google's search algorithm changes prioritizing reddit and AI answers could be driving users to check out Microsoft's oft-derided search engine instead.

Laffgaff

The Belgian Fancy is what type of bird?

Canary.

Garment Factory

A friend of mine owned a garment factory. I suggested he tried making wallets, but he was too clothes minded.