BBC News
Badenoch encourages Tory councils to challenge asylum hotels
The Tory leader writes to council leaders after a court blocked a hotel from housing asylum seekers.
Dozens more UK Afghan data breaches uncovered
The MoD admits 49 data breaches at the unit handling applications from Afghans seeking safety in the UK.
Palestinians flee Gaza City as Israel says first stages of assault have begun
An Israeli military spokesman says troops will deepen the damage to the "terror infrastructure" held by Hamas.
ICC says it deplores new US sanctions on judges and prosecutors
Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounces the court as "an instrument of lawfare" against the US and Israel.
Sony raises PlayStation 5 prices in US as tariff fears persist
The Japanese technology giant cited economic challenges as it raised prices for the consoles by around $50.
Texas lawmakers approve redistricting map favouring Republicans
Facing opposition from Democrats who fled the state to stall the vote, Republicans hope the new maps will lead to more seats in Congress.
China's Xi touts unity and development in rare Tibet visit
The visit to Lhasa suggests a desire to stamp the Chinese leader's authority over the region.
Delta and United sued for selling 'window seats' without windows
Delta and United are being sued over allegedly charging extra for seats next to a blank walls.
'Ice cream man' in fatal Wembley attack named
Shazad Khan, 41, was treated for stab wounds but died at the scene on Tuesday evening, police say.
Hurricane Erin's high waves thrash coast of North Carolina
Mandatory evacuation orders are in place along the Outer Banks of North Carolina amid fears islands may be cut off from the main highway.
'Labour revolt on migrant hotels' and 'cult priest guilty'
Local councils seeking legal action on asylum hotels and a priest guilty of 17 sex crimes make Thursday's papers.
Saving China's finless porpoise from the brink of extinction
Scientists are racing to protect what some view as "the most important animal" in the Yangtze.
Asylum hotel challenge doesn't end with Epping court ruling
The High Court ruling follows an unprecedented backlog in people waiting for a decision on their cases.
A fierce war of words keeps Thailand and Cambodia on edge
The two sides are waging an information war to win international sympathy and shore up support at home.
Suranne Jones: Playing the prime minister 'changes your perception' of politics
Suranne Jones plays the Prime Minister whose husband is kidnapped in new political thriller, Hostage.
India's biofuel drive is saving billions but also sparking worries
Critics say many vehicles in India are not biofuel-compliant, and its use could put engines at risk. The government denies this.
Why are food prices still rising by so much?
Food and drink prices have risen by 4.9% over the last year, according to ONS inflation data.
Microsoft boss troubled by rise in reports of 'AI psychosis'
Mustafa Suleyman said there was still "zero evidence of AI consciousness today".
US Navy sailor convicted of spying for China
He is found guilty of selling details about warships' locations and weapons to a Chinese spy for $12,000.
'Chilling' political interference in BBC must stop, says former news boss
The BBC's former director of news James Harding delivers the TV industry's flagship annual lecture.
Government prepares to take over UK's third-largest steelworks
Managers have been lined up to take control in a bid to protect 1,500 jobs at the Yorkshire plant.
Mechanic, 27, dies after being crushed under car
Daniel Burton, 27, was found unresponsive underneath his partner's father's car he was working on.
UK's third-largest steelworks collapses into government control
Hundreds of Liberty Steel workers in Rotherham and Sheffield face an uncertain future.
Record 111,000 UK asylum applications in past year, figures show
The latest data, which covers Labour's first year in office, also shows the government is processing cases faster.
'Slave-like' assistants and late-night massages: How a radical priest abused his congregation
Chris Brain, who led nightclub-style services in the 1980s and 90s, is convicted of indecent assault.
Appeals court throws out Trump's $500m civil fraud penalty
In its 323-page ruling, the New York judges stated that the fine was excessive, and likely violated the US Constitution.
Game of Thrones star Kristian Nairn withdraws from Strictly on medical grounds
Kristian Nairn says he's been struggling with "a high level of stress and a little bit of grief".
Councillor's wife jailed for race hate social media post released from prison
Lucy Connolly is released from HMP Peterborough after receiving a 31-month sentence in October.
Russia launches biggest wave of strikes on Ukraine for weeks
Ukrainian officials say the attacks included drones, hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missiles.
Hundreds of thousands of Grok chats exposed in Google results
Elon Musk's artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot appears to have published messages without users' knowledge.
UK backs call for Israel to allow foreign media into Gaza
Governments from 27 countries, including France and Germany, say journalists in Gaza must be protected.
Tube staff to strike over pay and work conditions
RMT union members will strike from Friday 5 September for seven days.
Millie Bobby Brown and husband adopt a baby daughter
The Stranger Things star and Jake Bongiovi say they're are "beyond excited to embark on this beautiful next chapter".
Do asylum figures show if government's strategy is working?
Two BBC correspondents assess what the Home Office's new data tells us about the efficacy of the government's asylum strategy.
How a cowboy builder ripped off his customers – and got away with it
When the BBC exposed Russell McMaster as a cowboy builder last year, angry clients demanded he be prosecuted.
If a Putin-Zelensky summit takes place, where could it be?
Geneva, Istanbul and Budapest have been put forward as potential locations - but bilateral talks still remain a long way off.
Watch: Moments from 1993 Menendez brothers trial as they make their case for parole
Erik and Lyle, who are serving prison sentences for the murders of their parents, are making their case for parole this week.
Average five-year mortgage at lowest level since 2023
The average five-year fixed rate is now 4.99%, falling below 5% for the first time since 2023.
Palestinians flee Gaza City districts as Israel says first stages of offensive have begun
An Israeli military spokesman says troops will deepen the damage to the "terror infrastructure" held by Hamas.
There are three more species of giraffe than previously thought - but can you spot the difference?
Giraffes have always been thought to be one species, but scientists now say there are four.
Tesco increases cost of meal deal as UK food prices continue to rise
The move by the UK's largest supermarket is the latest example of rising food prices.
Woman who died while skydiving took her own life, inquest finds
Experienced skydiver Jade Damarell made no attempt to deploy her parachutes, an inquest hears.
Trump backs down from 250% EU pharma tariff in deal
The US and EU have released details of the new trade deal reducing tariffs between the two partners.
Ukrainian held in Italy over Nord Stream gas pipelines blast mystery
German prosecutors say the man was in a group that planted explosives in the Baltic Sea.
Bournemouth Echo
'It's absolutely mental' - Friends rescue people from water on Bournemouth Beach
A man who saved three people from the water on Sunday afternoon has said “it’s absolutely mental” there are not more lifeguards on Bournemouth Beach during the summer.
Plans submitted to expand hospital in Poole
PLANS have been submitted for a major extension at Alderney Hospital in Poole which will “create extra patient bedrooms and improve facilities for staff and patients”.
In The Dock: Man beat police officer and urinated in cell
The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:
Puppy killed after being left in hot car by dog trainer pictured by RSPCA
A PUPPY that was killed after being left in a hot car by a dog trainer has been pictured as RSCPA release photos.
'His unwavering commitment cost him his life'
A pre inquest review took place for a man that died in Ukraine, after he travelled to support Ukrainian people against oppression.
Poole convenience store has licence revoked after links with 'criminal activities'
A convenience store in Poole has had it’s licence revoked after being linked with criminal activities.
Chain coffee store set to close on high street
A CHAIN coffee shop is set to close next month on Westbourne high street.
Bournemouth Town Pastors: 'We don't do it for praise and accolades'
The Bournemouth Town Pastors have been praised by Dorset Police for its “reassuring presence” keeping partyers and clubbers in the town centre safe.
"I hear your concerns, and I stand with you"
As Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner, I want to make it clear that keeping our communities safe is my highest priority.
Licence variation given to Horse and Groom Pub, Woodgreen
A “fabric of the community” village pub in the New Forest has been green-lit to show family friendly films and host events in its car park – despite opposition.
New sportswear shop opens with 'bargain bunker' in Bournemouth
Sport It First opens its largest sportswear store in Bournemouth on Old Christchurch Road, offering brands like Gymshark and Puma, jobs, and discount deals.
LISTED: The latest plans submitted to BCP Council
More than eighty planning applications were submitted to BCP Council last week.
Safeguard Force 'banned me and ignored me'
I'm no activist but like so many I have been extremely worried about the Safeguard Force vigilante group.
Young beauty salon owner "over the moon" at nomination
A 20-year-old woman who set up her own salon just six months ago has been shortlisted in the Daily Echo’s Beauty Salon of the Year competition.
Ceremony honours heroic soldiers who served in World War 2
Sandford honoured Burma WW2 veterans at a ceremony by the Devonshire and Dorset Regimental Association. Dorset Regiment history and Imphal battle featured.
6 pets at RSPCA Dorset who are on the lookout for loving new homes
A number of pets at Dorset RSPCA branches in Ashley Heath and Dorchester are looking to find loving new homes.
'Let's not allow fear to override facts or compassion'
I write with deep concern about the growing hostility and lack of empathy towards asylum seekers currently residing in Bournemouth.
Popular nostalgic festival returns to Fordingbridge this weekend
The three-day festival offers a range of fun activities and events ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Community cinema project back for third year with new season
High Contrast Cinema returns to Wimborne’s Allendale Centre for its third year, screening classic British films in a non-profit, volunteer-run community project.
New workshops to help businesses understand artificial intelligence
Dorset SMEs invited to free AI Exchange workshops in September. Learn practical artificial intelligence skills with Evolve and Business Growth Dorset. Book now.
Dorset town to be transformed into floral haven for four days
Wimborne Minster Flower Festival 2025 celebrates Dorset’s heritage with floral displays of landmarks like Corfe Castle. Supported by Wimborne BID.
Beer festival with 'stuff of legends' band to return this weekend
The Old Harry Bar in Studland hosts its 8th annual Purbeck beer festival this weekend, featuring local brews, food stalls, live music and The Swillers.
Pokesdown station accessibility upgrades 'making real progress'
Pokesdown station set for accessibility upgrades as lift installation plans progress. South Western Railway, MP Tom Hayes and community push for 2026 start.
Charity aims to teach 300,000 people life-saving skills
"But when it comes to real emergencies, knowing first aid is one of the most powerful ways to show love."
AA warns festival-goers to keep an eye on their car keys
The AA warns festival-goers to keep car keys safe, as most lost items at UK festivals. Advice given for safe driving to Reading, Leeds, Creamfields, and more.
Cider farm inviting community to bring surplus apples to event
Visitors will also have the opportunity to see and taste the range of apples grown at the farm.
Charity that has been helping older people in Hampshire for decades
Age Concern Hampshire supports older people with care and wellbeing centres, help at home, dementia support and foot care, promoting independence in Hampshire.
Museum sees huge visitor increase after popular family activities
Museum of East Dorset sees 250% visitor rise with Minecraft-themed family activities in Wimborne, blending heritage, creativity and summer holiday fun.
Holiday rental market in Dorset makes almost £9 million
Dorset ranked ninth in UK holiday rental revenue, earning nearly £9m in late 2024, with the highest median nightly price at £162, study finds.
Dorset-based singer-songwriter releases new single
Dorset singer-songwriter Eva Gadd releases new single "Have It All," exploring forbidden love. Second single from upcoming 2025 EP. Listen now.
Two theatre makers develop new show about gender dysphoria
Bristol poets Eryn McDonald and Aish Humphreys develop Girlhood On T, a new theatre show on gender dysphoria, friendship and trans/non-binary experiences.
New treatment for bladder cancer approved for use by the NHS
NHS approves new enfortumab vedotin and pembrolizumab combo for advanced bladder cancer, doubling survival rates and offering hope to UK patients.
Old Casio watches could be worth hundreds of pounds, expert says
Expert reveals vintage Casio, Sekonda and Smiths De Luxe watches from the 70s and 80s could be worth up to £800. How to spot valuable UK timepieces.
Bournemouth company helps recycle one billion plastic straws
The Recycle Bound initiative has received numerous awards for innovation and sustainability.
Internationally acclaimed artist to hold exhibition in Bournemouth
International artist Alexander Dakers hosts a free outdoor art exhibition at Bournemouth’s Green House Hotel this August, supporting Dorset Blind Association.
Wimborne's own bake-off competition returns for food festival
Wimborne Bake-Off returns for the food festival, marking VE and VJ Day 80th anniversaries. Enter your Victoria sponge for a chance to win prizes. Free entry.
Community centre announces new venture with theatre company
Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne, partners with Grass Roots Theatre Company to stage Dorset playwrights’ works. Next show: David Tristram plays, Sept 18–20.
River pageant hailed a success as it raises thousands for charities
Christchurch River Pageant 2025 saw 45 boats parade on the River Stour, raising over £2,500 for local charities and celebrating maritime heritage.
Care provider donates £1,500 to charitable enterprise
Care South donates £1,500 to Ringwood Men’s Shed, supporting a new clubhouse and community projects with St Ives House care home in Hampshire.
Council cuts use of temporary accommodation by more than half
The council says this "compares favourably nationally" where there has been an increase of approximately 25 per cent.
Pop icon to be special guest at Adam Ant's Bournemouth show
Pop icon Toyah joins Adam Ant as special guest for his Antmusic 2025 Tour at Bournemouth International Centre
Majestic opens a new store offering free wine tastings
Majestic Wine opens new Christchurch store in Saxon Square, offering 1,200+ wines, daily free tastings, expert advice, and free next-day UK delivery.
RECAP: 'Avoid the area': 'Large' fire breaks out across two fields
People are being told to 'avoid the area' as a 'large' fire breaks out in Alderholt.
RECAP: Road blocked after reports of police car chase
The A338 has been partially blocked following reports of a police car chase.
Veteran facing eviction gets a home and a job after 2,000 refusals
A desperate Dorset veteran who was hours away from homelessness after unsuccessfully applying for 2,000 jobs has been given a home
Safeguarding Force's GoFundMe removed for 'raising funds for vigilantism'
A VOLUNTARY policing force has said it is "shocked" after its fundraising page was shut down by GoFundMe.
Plans to replace phone mast with one double its size to support 5G coverage
Plans have been unveiled to replace a 10-metre telecoms mast in Pennington with a 20-metre monopole in the New Forest to support 5G networks.
Road closed after three-car-crash near airport
There are reports of heavy traffic near Bournemouth Airport after a crash involving three cars.
RECAP: GCSE results day across BCP and Dorset
Thousands of 16-year-olds will be collecting their GCSE results today across BCP, Dorset and the New Forest today. We will be bringing you latest updates, pictures and more.
Mini roundabouts vandalised with St George's cross
Concerns have been raised after a number of mini-roundabouts have been vandalised by red graffiti to look like St George's flags
PICTURES: Celebrations on GCSE results day across BCP
There were big smiles for many teenagers when students from across the area collected their GCSE results on Thursday, August 21.
Traditional pub and brewery closes after someone 'changed the locks'
After more than a decade, a popular pub has closed its doors.
PICTURES: Students collect their GCSE results across BCP and Dorset
Thousands of students have been collecting their GCSE results across BCP, Dorset and the New Forest today.
'Home from home': New Lounge venue opens in high street
A new Lounge venue, Espino Lounge, has opened its doors in New Milton.
Holiday company denies rumours that parks are housing asylum seekers
Haven Holidays have denied rumours circulating on social media that their sites are housing asylum seekers.
Early morning fire at recycling centre 'extinguished'
A fire has broken out at a waste recycling centre, with fire crews currently tackling the blaze.
Why Bournemouth's Stouden Park is not actually a park
Bournemouth’s Stouden Park holds a long history, though primarily a residential ward rather than a single, formally designated park.
Remember this pram prix in Poole?
Spotted were prams carrying oversize babies, some housing cannons, desert prams transporting sheikhs and even prams from Disneyland.
Homes burgled in three-night crime spree
Three burglaries have been reported in as many days following a spate of break-ins in Swanage over the last week.
Firefighters tackle blaze at recycling centre
Firefighters tackled a blaze at a waste recycling centre during the early hours of this morning.
Person found hypothermic after lifeboat launched to 'cries for help'
A person was heard ‘crying for help’ before being found ‘very wet’ and hypothermic.
'It has been a very enjoyable journey and a privilege to be part of this school'
A LONG-SERVING teacher at Talbot Heath School has retired after 25 years, describing his time at the school as “very enjoyable” and a “privilege to be a part of”.
Talbot Heath School girls get 'exceptional' results in STEM subjects
STAFF and students at Talbot Heath School are celebrating this year’s GCSE results with girls doing “exceptional” in STEM subjects.
Man jailed after slashing victim's face with knife
The victim of a violent knife assault has been praised by police after he was left with an 11 inch cut down his face
Outrage at town sites earmarked for major developments
Pic - Cllr Louie O'Leary at a recent council meeting
Town centre road closure to cause bus disruption over bank holiday weekend
PART of a town centre road in Lyme Regis will be closed over bank holiday weekend for emergency work
Concerns raised over 'balaclava-wearing' e-bike riders
Residents of a Dorset village have raised concerns about young people acting antisocially whilst driving e-bikes
Jet 2 announces getaways to 'magical' European Christmas markets
Jet2 has announced the launch of flights to two 'magical' Christmas market destinations in Europe.
Owls, snakes, and more meet care home residents for hands-on experience
Gemma Chalkley, general manager at Moors Manor, said: "Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors today.
Formula 1
Revisiting the best cars from every decade in F1 history
As F1 celebrates 75 years of the World Championship, it’s the perfect time to look at the sport’s all-time outstanding cars. Below, our technical guru Mark Hughes presents the best performing machines from each decade, as well as providing a few honourable mentions…
How Williams’ 2025 season has played out so far
Williams have continued their upward trajectory under team boss James Vowles in 2025, rising to fifth position in the Teams’ Championship via some impressive points-scoring displays. But it has not all been smooth sailing for the Grove-based outfit, with a big second half lying ahead as they try to keep their midfield rivals behind. Here is the team’s half term report…
8 of McLaren’s strongest line-ups before Norris & Piastri
Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have earned praise for their commanding performances in 2025, a driver pairing that looks set to follow in the footsteps of other impressive duos to have raced for McLaren over the years. As such, we’ve been taking a look back at eight of the team’s strongest line-ups from seasons gone by…
Wolff backs Bottas in push for full-time F1 return
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff believes that Valtteri Bottas is fully deserving of a Formula 1 comeback, amid the Finn’s links to Cadillac ahead of their debut 2026 season.
Windows Central
Helldivers 2 is carrying on this iconic Halo easter egg tradition with its crossover — and I'm in love with the silly spin it's putting on it
The Helldivers 2 x Halo ODST crossover that's releasing with the Xbox version next week brings back a classic easter egg, but with a Helldivers twist.
Surprise, surprise — A new Prince of Persia game just shadow dropped onto Xbox Game Pass (yes, I already downloaded it)
The Rogue Prince of Persia, a 2D roguelite action-adventure game, just shadow dropped onto Xbox, PC, PlayStation, and Xbox Game Pass after a year in early access.
I loved seeing HP put OMEN and HyperX gaming front and center, but I had even more fun checking out the new gear early
I went to Los Angeles for HP's Level Reforge event, and ahead of the show was able to get some sweet hands-on time with the new OMEN and HyperX gaming gear.
ROG just revealed an Xbox-certified wireless controller — a premium gamepad with TMR joysticks built to banish drift for good
ASUS ROG's newest Raikiri controller is not only Xbox certified but also offers impressive features for PC or Xbox gaming.
NVIDIA builds a weaker AI chip for China — but will it pass the policy test?
Anonymous sources have claimed that NVIDIA is preparing samples of a new B30A AI chip to deliver to Chinese customers "as early as next month." How will that play out amongst the current political tensions between China and the US?
Helldivers 2 is dropping in hot on Xbox next week — here's exactly when you can play at launch time and 'jump feet first' into that sick Halo ODST crossover
Helldivers 2 is only a week away from its highly anticipated Xbox release. Here's exactly when you can play the beloved co-op shooter, including specific launch times.
"Sadly you don’t know how to launch in India": OpenAI debuts ChatGPT Go at under $5/month to promote affordability, but reactions are mixed
OpenAI recently launched ChatGPT Go, a new subscription tier for its service in India for roughly $5/month. However, the new tier has been received with mixed reactions.
PlayStation hikes prices after Xbox — inflation or just peer pressure? Here’s what each model will now cost.
A PlayStation 5 is about to cost even more in the U.S, with Sony confirming a price hike due to a " challenging economic environment."
Microsoft brings Copilot+ PCs to NFL sidelines — but AI’s not calling the plays (yet)
Microsoft is bringing Copilot+ PCs and AI tools to NFL sidelines, helping teams track plays, analyze formations, and prep faster throughout the week.
Hollow Knight: Silksong finally has a release date — I can't believe the long-awaited game is coming in September
During a special presentation on Thursday, Team Cherry confirmed that Hollow Knight: Silksong finally has a release date of Sept. 4, 2025.
Triangle Strategy shadow-drops on Xbox for Gamescom 2025 — a critically-acclaimed RPG to tide you over until Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles arrives
Square Enix has made a surprising Gamescom 2025 announcement — shadow-dropping Triangle Strategy, the hit Strategy-RPG from 2022, onto Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5.
Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman raises the alarm about the dangers of "conscious AI" — a prospect that’s seemingly keeping Google DeepMind’s CEO up at night
Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman recently raised the importance of building AI for people, not to be a person, suggesting that conscious AI might be coming and society isn't ready.
Windows bug blocks “Reset my PC” feature — here’s how to fix the issue
A bug in Windows 11 and 10 stops PCs from resetting or recovering. Microsoft has issued an update to fix the problem, but you still need to install it.
I tried Windows 11's new handheld gaming mode on the Xbox Ally — will this save gaming on Windows handhelds?
We take our first look at how Microsoft is improving and optimizing Windows 11 for small handheld gaming PCs like the upcoming Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. There's some interesting stuff here!
Microsoft adds Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro to GitHub Copilot, but only if you pay — free users should use this alternative anyway
GitHub Copilot users, at least, the premium ones, will now be able to use Google Gemini 2.5 Pro for all their coding needs. But you can use Google's own tools for free...
10 features recently added that you probably didn't notice on Windows 10
Windows 10 new features and changes you missed in updates since version 22H2, including the About page redesign, Taskbar changes, more clutter to the context menu, file transfer feature, and more.
Fallout TV series Season 2 has an explosive teaser trailer — here are 7 things you might've missed
There's a lot to unpack from the Fallout Season 2 trailer, with numerous glimpses of characters and factions that imply a lot for this massive TV series.
I tried to replace my favorite Copilot feature with local AI — but it's nowhere near as good in comparison
Using Copilot to summarize web articles is one of my favorite features. I tried to replicate it using an on-device AI model and it just isn't the same.
Two of the best 14-inch gaming laptops have a massive price difference — is there a good reason?
Two of the best 14-inch gaming laptops have now been tested and reviewed here at Windows Central, and I take a deeper look at the similarities and differences in an attempt to justify the huge price difference.
Well done, EA — what may be Battlefield 2042's final update made me more excited than ever for Battlefield 6
The Battlefield 6 Open Beta is over, but a massive BF2042 update has given me and many other players away to keep the excitement alive ahead of the full launch.
Xbox's Double Fine is working on "multiple games" in addition to Keeper, says studio head Tim Schafer — but none of them are Brutal Legend 2
During Gamescom 2025, Double Fine's Tim Schafer confirmed that the studio is working on multiple games in addition to the upcoming Keeper.
Laffgaff
What is the flattest U.S. state?
Florida.
Well-Balanced Horse
What do you call a well-balanced horse? Stable.
Itsfoss
FOSS Weekly #25.34: Mint 22.2 Features, FreeVPN Fiasco, Windows Update Killing SSDs, AI in LibreOffice and More
A week of fiascos by Microsoft and Google (sort of).
TerraMaster D1 SSD Plus Review: Experience a Faster External SSD
It is one of those devices that I did not know I needed until I used it.