The News - Saturday, 16 August 2025

BBC News

'Next time in Moscow?': Five takeaways after Trump and Putin's Alaska summit

With no ceasefire and an invitation to Moscow, the US and Russia's meeting yields more questions than answers.

No ceasefire, no deal. What summit means for Trump, Putin and Ukraine

Three BBC correspondents at the meeting in Alaska assess what we learned about the two leaders and what's next for the war.

'A long way for nothing?' BBC correspondents on Alaska meeting

After the leaders left without taking questions, Anthony Zurcher and Steve Rosenberg stayed on to unpack what we learned.

How the Trump-Putin summit unfolded... in under 2 minutes

The meeting concluded with no deal being reached between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin but "great progress" was made in Ukraine talks.

Afghans resettled in UK hit by new data breach

Personal data of up to 3,700 Afghans have potentially been exposed after a cyber-attack on a company working with the MoD.

UK trade envoy resigns over northern Cyprus visit

Labour MP Afzal Khan as resigned after criticism of his visit last week to the territory, which isn't recognised by the UK government.

King hails veterans' courage and sacrifice on VJ Day

The King and Queen join veterans at a service to mark the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War Two.

Blackpink: K-pop band make 'epic Wembley dream' come true

The quartet have become the first Korean girl group to headline a concert at London's Wembley Stadium.

The 104-year-old WW2 veteran who moved the Queen to tears

Yavar Abbas reflects on his experiences on the front line - and the wars engulfing the world today.

Far-right Israeli minister taunts prominent Palestinian prisoner in his cell

Video shows Itamar Ben Gvir telling the most prominent Palestinian prisoner Marwan Barghouti "you will not win".

Epping hotel given temporary ban on taking new asylum seekers

A court hears housing the asylum seekers at the hotel is causing an "unacceptable" safety risk.

Iceland offers £1 reward to customers for reporting shoplifters

The company estimates that shoplifting costs its business around £20m each year.

One dead and several injured as Danish train hits tanker and derails

Local media report crash at railway crossing in southern Jutland involved lorry transporting farm waste.

Watch: Royals and veterans mark VJ Day 80 years on

The King and Queen led a two-minute silence at a service in Staffordshire to commemorate 80 years since VJ Day.

Topshop returns to the High Street, but can it get its cool back?

For many people, the stores defined their childhood. Now they are due to come back.

The Papers: 'Ukraine's fate in their hands' and 'Praying for peace'

Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin's high-stakes summit in Alaska dominates Saturday's papers.

An artist on the run, an exhibition censored: How China tried to silence a Thai art show

The Burmese curators of the show, which contained Tibetan, Uyghur and Hong Kong art, have fled to the UK.

Are mangoes good for diabetes? Indian studies challenge conventional wisdom

Two Indian trials suggest that controlled mango consumption, instead of carbs, may improve blood sugar in diabetes.

'I spend £120 a month on buses': Under-22s on what free travel would mean to them

They welcome a call for under-22s in England to get free bus passes to help them into work and education.

DC police chief retains command after deal with Trump administration

The city had asked a judge to block Attorney General Bondi's order that put in place an "emergency police commissioner".

Jazz pianist thought job offer from Spike Lee 'was spam'

Fergus McCreadie found himself flying to New York to work on the crime thriller Highest 2 Lowest.

Chinook helicopter was on 'show flight' when it crashed killing 29, ex-RAF pilot says

Four crew and 25 passengers were killed when an RAF Chinook struck a hillside in foggy conditions over the Mull of Kintyre in 1994.

Sonic boom heard after RAF scrambled to incident

A loud explosive sound is reported in Essex, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Norfolk, Kent and London.

Sturgeon book reignites trans row with JK Rowling

In her memoir, Sturgeon complains about the Harry Potter author posting a selfie in a T-shirt branding her a "destroyer of women's rights".

Charity boss offers Jenrick 'olive branch' over BBC row

The theologian who made the claim said he wanted to work with the shadow justice secretary.

Kingsmill owner to buy Hovis to make UK bread giant

Warburtons is the current market leader and the deal needs approval from the competition watchdog.

'The world is behaving irrationally' - Putin's warm welcome gets cold reaction in Ukraine

In the absence of a deal, Ukrainians focused on the optics of Putin's visit to Trump in Alaska.

Bring sick and injured children to UK from Gaza immediately, MPs say

Unicef has estimated that 50,000 children have been killed or injured since the conflict in Gaza began two years ago.

'A fresh start': William and Kate to move to new Windsor home

A royal source says it's an opportunity to leave some of the more unhappy memories behind.

Topshop is launching a comeback - but can it work?

For many, the stores defined their childhood. Now the retailer says it is reopening them, and held its first catwalk for years on Saturday.

Man arrested after Bournemouth striker Semenyo reports racist abuse

Bournemouth player Antoine Semenyo reported being racially abused during the game at Anfield.

Erin rapidly intensifies to category five hurricane

The "extremely powerful" storm "explosively deepened and intensified" overnight, say forecasters

Trump's ceasefire pivot will have caused dismay in Kyiv and Europe

The US president demanded a ceasefire before he met Putin. His change of mind flies in the face of what Europe and Ukraine want.

End of Ukraine war 'closer than ever' thanks to Trump, says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer commends President Trump's efforts in Alaska on Friday, saying it brings "us closer than ever before" to ending the war.

Are mangoes good for diabetes? Indian studies challenge conventional wisdom

Two Indian trials suggest that controlled mango consumption, instead of carbs, may improve blood sugar in diabetes.

'Bus fares have cut my food budget': Under-22s on what free travel would mean to them

They welcome a call for under-22s in England to get free bus passes to help them into work and education.

Police seize £180k of Andrew Tate supercar deposit

Andrew Tate paid the deposit for a special-edition Aston Martin Valhalla vehicle in July 2021.

Afghans resettled in UK hit by new data breach

Personal data of up to 3,700 Afghans have potentially been exposed after a cyber-attack on a company working with the MoD.

Blackpink: K-pop band make 'epic Wembley dream' come true

The quartet have become the first Korean girl group to headline a concert at London's Wembley Stadium.

What to know as Air Canada grounds flights and attendants strike

Air Canada advises passengers not to go to the airport unless they have tickets on other airlines.

Macron condemns 'act of hatred' after tree memorial for murdered Jew is cut down

The French president said the felling of the tree honouring Ilan Halimi was "an attempt to kill him a second time".

Last surviving WW2 Victoria Cross recipient dies aged 105

John Cruickshank suffered 72 injuries during the bombing raid on a U-boat in 1944 but refused medical treatment.

One dead and dozens injured as Danish train hits tanker and derails

The crash at a railway crossing in southern Jutland involved a lorry transporting farm waste.

Runner, 97, breaks European Parkrun record with 250th event

Grace Chambers, 97, becomes Europe's oldest parkrunner to reach the 250-run milestone.

EncroChat selfie led police straight to fugitive

Organised crime gang boss Jamie Rothwell ran his drugs and guns empire from a flat in Barcelona.

New Orleans mayor and bodyguard lover charged with fraud and corruption

Prosecutors accuse LaToya Cantrell of conspiring with her protection cop to pay him for personal liasons.

Bournemouth Echo

Pub review: 'As autumn arrives, the cosy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot'

A popular village pub has reopened after a refurbishment, introducing a fresh new menu.

Man charged with sexually assaulting woman

A man in his 20s has been charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault near Ringwood. 

LIVE: Emergency services and coastguard descend on Bournemouth beach

The emergency services and the coastguard are currently on Bournemouth beach - we will bring you more information as we get it

LIVE: Thousands expected to flock to beach for hot weather this weekend

Headlines, traffic and weather as thousands are expected to flock to Bournemouth Beach this weekend in the sunshine.

Veteran faces eviction after being turned down for 2,000 jobs

A VETERAN who has applied for 2,000 jobs since he was made redundant last summer is now facing eviction from his Dorset home.

Stunning manor house with links to famous novelist on the market for £4.5 million

A striking manor house with connections to Thomas Hardy is our property of the week

Coroner issues next of kin appeal after death of Dorset woman

The Coroner for Dorset is seeking the assistance of the public to find the next of kin of a woman who died in Bridport.

Village ‘divided’ by pub that wants to show Black Beauty film outside

A New Forest village has been “divided” in a row over a pub after the owner launched a bid to show films outdoors.

Candidates are announced for Talbot and Branksome by-election

Candidates for Talbot and Branksome by election have been announced.

In The Dock: Man tried to steal from Bournemouth theatre

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Private jet makes emergency landing at Bournemouth Airport

A private jet was forced to make an emergency landing at Bournemouth Airport after suffering a technical fault mid-flight.

Concerns raised over anti-asylum posts by Safeguard Force founder

Concerns have been raised about content posted on social media by the founder of an ‘inclusive’ and ‘non-political’ patrol group.

'Charming' and picturesque Dorset village with famous and 'award-winning' pub

Here is why the small and picturesque Dorset village of Worth Matravers is worth a visit, in part thanks to its famous award-winning pub

'Stunning' Dorset campsite that's a 'hidden gem' located in 'a gorgeous valley'

Norden Farm campsite in Dorset has been hailed as a 'hidden gem' by visitors thanks to its 'stunning' surroundings and facilities

Change coming to BCP Council car parks from next month

Parking charges will be simplified next month with a sole parking provider being announced.

'Why is council selling off car park?'

Has BCP Council gone completely mad or is it looking to make a fast buck?

Huge emergency response at beach stood down as missing nine-year-old found

A HUGE emergency response has been stood down as a missing nine-year-old has been found.

Man arrested after Antoine Semenyo reported racist abuse during Liverpool match

A 47-year-old man from Liverpool has been arrested after a Bournemouth player reported being racially abused during his team’s match at Anfield on Friday, Merseyside Police said.

Nine-year-old in floral swimsuit reported missing from beach - have you seen her?

Salimatou, aged nine, was last seen in the area of Bournemouth Pier at around 12.30pm on Saturday, August 16.

Six dispersal notices handed out in town centre by police in one evening

Dorset Police's Bournemouth Team issued six dispersal notices to youths to prevent further disorder as part of its "beach beat" on Friday evening.

Cricket club to honour 'great dad' and 'true gentleman'

Mudeford Cricket Club is to be presented with an honours board in memory of well-known bowler and 'great dad', Bob Read.

Have you seen this man? Urgent appeal with concerns for 38-year-old's welfare

Stuart has been found.

Care home unveils 'marvellous' new look for nursing suite

The Potteries care home in Broadstone, Poole, unveils its refurbished Aegean Suite, offering premium nursing and dementia care for older people.

Poole plumber in running to become Screwfix's Top Tradesperson

Poole plumber Huw Jenkins reaches semi-final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2025, recognised for professionalism from hundreds of UK and Ireland entries.

Care South donates £1,000 to hospital in honour of former housekeeper

Care South donates £1,000 to University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity in honour of retired housekeeper Dot, supporting leukaemia care and NHS fundraising.

Mechanic organising free family fun day for struggling families

T.M Autos hosts a free family fun day at Butchers Coppice, Bournemouth in August with inflatables, school supply goodie bags and low-cost food.

BID assures that Christchurch is open despite roadworks

Christchurch BID assures hotels, shops and attractions are open during Willow Drive roadworks. Find alternative routes, parking and travel advice here.

Dorset MP calls for urgent action to protect Palestinian lives

Dorset MP Vikki Slade urges UK government to recognise Palestine, ban arms sales to Israel, and protect Palestinian lives amid Gaza crisis.

Kaiser Chiefs to perform at Bournemouth International Centre

Kaiser Chiefs announce Bournemouth gig at BIC on 26 February 2026 as part of 'More Employment' UK tour, celebrating 20 years since debut album 'Employment'.

Items from Red Dwarf star's collection to be sold at auction

Red Dwarf star Chris Barrie’s automobilia collection, including enamel signs and vintage car items, to be auctioned by Charterhouse.

Millions missing out on social life due to 'hidden epidemic'

Expert warns 12.8 million in UK suffer from aquaphobia, missing vital life skills. Institute of Aquaphobia urges action to tackle Britain's hidden epidemic.

Christcurch Scout off on 'once in a lifetime' adventure

Ben Sawdon from Christchurch joins nearly 500 UK Scouts at the World Scout Moot 2023 in Portugal, engaging in international adventure, friendship, and cultural exchange.

Charity offering help to families of children with disabilities

Parents and carers can also speak with others who may be facing similar situations and challenges.

Help repair historic churches by exploring Dorset's countryside

Join Dorset's Ride and Stride in September to explore the countryside, visit historic churches, and raise funds for Dorset Historic Churches Trust.

New garden opened at hospital for patients and staff

University Hospitals Dorset unveils new charity-funded critical care garden, offering a tranquil outdoor space for patients, relatives and NHS staff.

Lighthouse Poole announces festive schedule for December

The play features Olivier Award-winner Jack Lowden and Emmy and BAFTA-winner Martin Freeman.

Life coach returns to UK to improve the community's wellbeing

Life coach Harry Shelswell returns to the UK, offering mindfulness, wellbeing programmes, and coaching to boost community health and balance.

More than 400 motorbikes attend Sammy Miller museum event

Triumph Owners’ Day at Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum draws 460 bikes, rare 1957 TRW Prototype, and award-winning classics. Supported by TOMCC South Hants.

Classic & Supercar Sunday 2025 is coming to Canford

Get ready — Classic & Supercar Sunday 2025 is coming to Canford and it’s shaping up to be the biggest, baddest automotive celebration ever hosted.

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance launches 100-mile October challenge

Join the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance 100-mile October Challenge 2025 to fundraise for lifesaving critical care. Free sign-up, all ages welcome.

'Do not eat': Recalls at Farmfoods, Lidl, Tesco and more major UK supermarkets

Lidl, Tesco, Farmfoods and other UK supermarkets have issued recall warnings to shoppers, with the FSA saying "do not eat"

Woman dies after collapsing at home

An inquest has opened into the death of a woman who collapsed at home.

Village Produce Show set to return for 48th year

This year, the show will take place on Saturday, August 30, at Hyde War Memorial Parish Hall, Frogham Cross, Blissford, Fordingbridge.

Formula 1

Verstappen on titles, the future and Red Bull’s rebuild

Max Verstappen finds himself in territory he's not experienced since 2020 – driving at a high level, but without a car capable of fighting consistently for race wins and the championship.

How Alpine’s 2025 season has played out so far

With Alpine currently last in the 2025 Teams' Standings, we sum up their season so far in their half term report.

Windows Central

I can't believe my eyes — Microsoft might finally fix dark mode on Windows 11

The latest Windows 11 preview builds include an early glimpse at renewed work to add dark mode in more areas of the system, starting with File Explorer.

"Why abandon your game's identity?" — A vocal minority is trashing Battlefield 6, but I'm having a blast with the open beta

Battlefield 6 kicked off its second open beta weekend on Thursday, August 14, and some of the hype I saw during the first weekend has died down. Despite the game being trashed by a vocal minority, I'm having a ton of fun.

Battlefield 6 developers assuage fears surrounding map sizes as open beta continues — "We have a lot of variety in this package"

As Battlefield 6's open beta enters its second weekend, the developers assure players that bigger maps are on the way.

"It is acceptable to describe a child in terms that evidence their attractiveness": Meta AI bends safety guidelines by engaging in sensual talks with minors, generating false content, and discriminating against Black people

According to an internal document from Meta Platforms, the company's AI chatbot across Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram has permission to engage in romantic and sensual conversations with children, generate false information, and even argue that black people are dumber than white people.

Surface Pro 11 battery life cut in half — Microsoft is "actively investigating"

A Surface Pro 11 bug is capping battery charging at 50% for some users. Microsoft says it’s actively investigating the problem.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman revealed the heartbreaking truth behind its users’ attachment to previous ChatGPT models — "This was great for my mental health"

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently revealed that users are attached to GPT-5's predecessors for emotional support, further claiming that they've perhaps never experienced that before.

With GTA 6, next-gen exclusives, and a console comeback on the horizon, Xbox risks sitting on the sidelines — here's why

Hardware definitely isn't Xbox's focus anymore, but with all of its extra-curricular distractions, it could end up missing this easy opportunity to actually sell more Xbox Series X|S consoles than usual.

We gave OpenAI’s open-source AI a kid’s test — here’s what happened

OpenAI has finally released some AI models folks can use at home on their local machines, so I decided to see if it was better at a test designed for children than my own kid.

From plateau predictions to buggy rollouts — Bill Gates’ GPT-5 skepticism looks strangely accurate

Over 2 years ago, former Microsoft CEO Bill Gates claimed that OpenAI's technology had reached a plateau, indicating that GPT-5 wouldn't be significantly better than GPT-4.

Laffgaff

Snot And Honey

I love being covered in snot and honey. It's the bees' sneeze.

Simone Biles is an Olympic athlete in what sport?

Gymnastics.