The News - Wednesday, 03 September 2025

BBC News

Watch: Key moments from China's big show of strength

The military parade was attended by world leaders including Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un and showcased China’s new weapons.

Energy drinks to be banned for under 16s

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said he was acting on concerns for children's health.

Don't pay a fake parking fine – four ways to protect yourself from scams

Four simple tips to make sure you don't fall victim to fake texts or payment demands from BBC expert Nick Stapleton.

Government unable to calculate Afghan data breach cost, watchdog says

The National Audit Office says it has not been given enough information to have "confidence" a relocation scheme cost £850m.

A scheme helped prevent sex offenders committing more crimes - then it closed. Why?

The case raises difficult questions about how best to protect potential victims.

Watch: Captain Scott’s famous polar shipwreck as never seen before

The Terra Nova carried Captain Scott and his men on their doomed expedition to the South Pole.

Asylum protests putting police under chronic pressure, chief says

Chief Constable Gavin Stephens says police have dealt with over 3,000 summer protests and warns against an "increase in tension and polarity".

Chris Mason: How Polanski's Green leadership could impact UK politics

Zack Polanski's landslide victory is the latest example of a shake up in the country's politics.

Watch: Trump addresses online health rumours in Oval Office

In response to a reporter's question, the president said he was ‘very active’ over the Labor Day weekend.

Seven claims made in new royal book from Brexit to Coronation

A new book on the connections between the royals and politics has revealed some eye-catching stories.

US filmmaker in legal battle over 'Downton Shabby'

Hopwood DePree takes Rochdale council to the High Court over control of his ancestral stately home.

Australia-Israel relations have hit a low point. Behind the scenes, it's business as usual

The two democratic allies have had a spectacular falling out - but what has actually changed?

What do we know about Kim Jong Un's daughter - and potential successor?

Kim Ju Ae's visit to China with her father is likely to further fuel speculation she may succeed him.

'Fury' over Father Ted creator arrest and 'nervy bond markets'

Father Ted creator Graham Linehan's arrest and skyrocketing borrowing costs dominate Wednesday's papers.

Ex-actor Zack Polanski's unusual path to become Green Party's new leader

Zack Polanski has stormed to victory on a platform promising bold communication and "eco-populism".

What's causing the UK's long-term borrowing costs to rise?

The cost of government borrowing has risen again - what does it mean for the public finances and upcoming Budget?

Watch: Timelapse shows Northern Lights display over North Sea

Monday night's dazzling sight was filmed from Flamborough in East Yorkshire, over three hours and 40 minutes.

Clegg accuses Vance of 'hypocrisy' over free speech criticism

Many senior right-wing US figures attack UK free speech laws while "intimidating and bullying" critics, Sir Nick says.

US House panel releases 33,000 pages of Epstein files

But Republicans and Democrats alike say the files, including jail CCTV, contain little new information.

Sue Gray questions class-based civil service internship scheme

The PM's former chief of staff says she "learned a lot from being around people from different walks of life" in the civil service.

Trump says 11 killed in US strike on drug-carrying vessel from Venezuela

The Trump administration has signalled a willingness to use military force against drug cartels.

Jury clears Cardi B of assault on security guard in Los Angeles

A number of viral moments thrust the civil case into the spotlight.

Google avoids break-up but must share data with rivals

A case over the US tech giant's dominance in search allows it to hang on to its Chrome web browser.

Rayner admits underpaying tax on £800,000 Hove flat

The deputy prime minister says she has referred herself for an ethics probe by the PM's adviser.

Henry Zeffman: Rayner's political future under threat after stamp duty admission

The deputy prime minister has referred herself for an ethics probe by the PM's adviser.

Met chief calls for law change after Graham Linehan arrest

Sir Mark Rowley says officers are in an "impossible position" when policing online speech.

Putin says Russia will achieve all aims militarily if Ukraine does not agree deal

The Russian leader has rejected calls for a ceasefire as his troops advance.

Reeves rejects claims of £50bn 'black hole' in finances

The chancellor hit back at the idea that the government faces so large a gap between spending and tax income.

What new weapons on show at huge parade say about China's military strength

Beijing has unveiled a range of military hardware in a show of might to Western powers.

Radiohead to tour for first time in seven years

The revered band will play four nights at London's O2 Arena in November as part of a European tour.

Ministers favour merging all UK steel companies into one

The government believes the struggling sector's six companies should be merged together, sources tell the BBC.

US strike on 'Venezuela drug boat': What do we know, and was it legal?

Experts suggest the strike - which killed 11 alleged cartel members - may be illegal under international law.

Topshop will return to High Street in 2026

The comeback in February 2026 will come five years after the chain closed its stores.

Luigi Mangione's likeness used to model shirt on Shein

An image with the likeness of Mr Mangione was used to advertise a white, short-sleeved shirt.

Xi, Putin and Kim show united front at huge parade

Speaking during the spectacle in Beijing, China's President Xi Jinping said the world faced a choice between peace and war.

China's Xi steals the limelight in a defiant push against US-led world order

President Xi shows off his power and influence in an open challenge to US supremacy and the world order.

'A clear message to Trump': BBC correspondents react to China's military parade

The display of might comes as Beijing positions itself as a global counterweight to the United States.

Faisal Islam: Reeves will need her hard hat for the next three months

The chancellor hits back at speculation over tax rises, but will need to find the money from somewhere.

Watch: Fountains of lava shoot into the air as Kilauea erupts

The molten magma streamed down one of the world’s most active volcanoes and put on another fiery show on the Island of Hawaii.

A let-off or tougher than it looks? What the Google monopoly ruling means

The search giant is not being broken up -so how much will it be affected by the remedies a judge has instead ordered?

Don't pay a fake parking fine – four ways to protect yourself from scams

Four simple tips to make sure you don't fall victim to fake texts or payment demands from BBC expert Nick Stapleton.

Energy drinks to be banned for under-16s in England

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said he was acting on concerns for children's health.

'Hero' plumber's firm breached multiple fundraising rules, report finds

A year-long investigation found James Anderson's firm committed eight breaches of fundraising rules.

Lush shuts UK stores for a day to protest Gaza starvation

The retail chain said similar action could be taken in its other stores worldwide.

Trans row tribunal nurse raises new NHS legal action

The nurse intends to pursue further claims of harassment and victimisation against both the health board and specific employees.

Jenrick criticised by judge for X post during murder trial

The High Court judge described the shadow justice secretary's message as "ill thought through".

Melvyn Bragg steps down from Radio 4's In Our Time

The veteran presenter has hosted more than 1,000 epsiodes of the programme over the past 26 years.

Bournemouth Echo

Meet the former health minister for Afghanistan seeking asylum in Bournemouth

THE FORMER minister for health for Afghanistan is seeking refuge in Bournemouth, as he calls for the community to remain united.

Alum Chine Tropical Gardens remains closed eight months after cliff slip fears

A tropical garden in Bournemouth remains closed due to landslide concerns.

Dorset retirement village with on-site wellness centre among Britain's best

Old Market Village in Wimborne, Dorset, has been named among Britain's best retirement villages according to the Daily Mail

Westbourne Tandoori applies for new licence

An Indian restaurant that has previously had its licence revoked has submitted a new application.

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 August 2025, including in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

157 anti-social behaviour incidents dealt with by police in one month

Officers dealt with 157 anti-social behaviour (ASB) incidents during their foot patrol in August, new figures said.

Hotel submits plans for padel courts and flood lighting

Nearly 60 planning applications were submitted last week from non-material applications to building renovations.

The Dorset winners who picked up prizes in this month's Premium Bonds draw

Here are the Premium Bonds winners for September 2025 in Dorset - check if you've won a prize.

Bournemouth podcast is shaking up conversations around tech

The Sam & Ray Podcast spotlights UK tech immigrants, startup founders and students, recently partnering with Bournemouth’s Re-Connect tech conference 2025.

Hundreds of children enjoy free day of fun activities

Dorset Freemasons host Ashlars 2025 near Bere Regis, offering 100 local children activities like archery and bushcraft. Community event supports charities, cadets.

Bus company launches September community fund for local groups

Morebus opens its September community fund for Dorset charities, schools, sports teams and events. Apply online for funding, free travel or support now.

Bournemouth MP praises changes to military housing

Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes welcomes return of 177 military homes to public ownership, part of MoD buyback and £7bn UK armed forces housing investment.

Electric motorbike to be crushed after being seized by police

Poole Police seize and crush uninsured Sur-Ron electric motorbike ridden illegally at high speed on Canford Heath pavement; no protective gear worn.

Applications open for two new shared ownership homes

Applications open 17 Sept for two new shared ownership homes in Fordingbridge’s Knightwood Chase by Cala Homes. Affordable, sustainable housing in Hampshire.

Dorset County Show promises more than ten hours of entertainment

Dorset County Show 2025: Enjoy 10+ hours of daily entertainment, livestock exhibitions, stunt displays, showjumping, Dorset food & drink, and live music.

Housebuilder announces open house events to explore new homes

Bryanston Holt will provide afternoon tea, a 'spin the wheel' competition, and an opportunity to decorate a ceramic cup and saucer planter.

Hospice charity to host first sustainable fashion show

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care hosts its first sustainable fashion show with Arts University Bournemouth at Porsche Centre Ferndown

War veteran surprised with 420 birthday cards from across the globe

Former Wren Kathleen from Poole receives 420 birthday cards worldwide for her 100th birthday, honouring her Women’s Royal Naval Service in World War II.

British couple's child abduction case sparks legal warning

High Court orders return of British child to Australia in abduction case; Ellis Jones Solicitors warn parents on Hague Convention and cross-border custody laws.

Businesses warned of major changes in responsibilities

Dorset businesses warned: from April 2026, PAYE and NIC liability shifts from umbrella companies to recruitment agencies or end clients. Azets advises review.

Road to be closed for five days for essential maintenance works

Stanfield Road, Ferndown will close for Dorset Council highway repairs. Daytime closure, no parking, access via onsite contact only.

Historic theatre has seen plenty of famous faces take to its stage

To cut a long story short, 7,000 signatures were presented to the county council and they in turn handed over the keys and passed it on with some demands.

Nominations open for 2025 Brilliance in Business Awards

Nominations are open for the 2025 Brilliance in Business Awards by New Forest Business Partnership, recognising local business excellence—apply by 30 September 2025.

Poole firm launches 'revolutionary' subscription platform

Grasp Accountants launches in Poole, Dorset, offering cloud-based accountancy, business advice, workshops, and subscription services for SMEs and owner-managed firms.

Castle and chapel open for free as part of Heritage Open Days

Enjoy free entry to Lulworth Castle and St Mary's Chapel for Heritage Open Days, in September. Explore Dorset history, grounds, and tearooms.

Spa launches menopause-focused package to help ease discomfort

Harbour Hotel & Spa launches menopause-focused spa package via SpaSeekers.com, offering tailored treatments to ease symptoms and boost wellbeing for UK women.

Two actors living with CFS create play about their experience

Actors Poppy Hardwicke and Lauren Mooney create new play “TATT” exploring chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) and its misconceptions in UK theatre.

Private schools urged to act fast as closures accelerate

More than 50 UK private schools have closed since the 20% VAT levy began in January 2025. Insolvency experts urge urgent action as closures accelerate.

Hospice announces details of charity Christmas party

Forest Holme Hospice hosts a charity Christmas Party at the Italian Villa, Poole, on 11 December. Enjoy a festive meal, casino, DJ and raffle—tickets £60.

Man to kayak for 12 hours in one day to raise money for charity

Jon Gilbert to kayak 80km in Poole Harbour for 12 hours, raising funds for Dorset disability charity Diverse Abilities in memory of his NHS nurse mum.

Rick Astley announces Bournemouth concert as part of 2026 tour

Rick Astley announces 2026 UK & Ireland tour with Gabrielle, performing in 12 cities including London and Bournemouth. Tickets on sale in September.

Brownsea Island offers a packed programme for nature lovers

Discover autumn wildlife at Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour—spot red squirrels, migrating birds, join free guided walks, and family trails. Closes 3 November.

Lighthouse to host workshops for children during half term

Lighthouse Poole hosts "The Art of Belonging" creative workshops for children aged 7–14 this October half term. Dance, rap, poetry & art. £38, bursaries available.

Households in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole set to simplify recycling

Households in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are set to simplify recycling in 2026.

Fire service seeing 'more and more incidents' relating to vape fires across Dorset

A successful freedom of information request by the Echo has revealed that 32 fires involving vapes have been dealt with by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service since 2022.

'Family's injustice': Coroner to investigate teen's death after soldier caused crash

A CORONER has ruled he will investigate a teenage girl’s death further after a speeding soldier caused a fatal crash.

Plans submitted for new M&S Foodhall will create 90 jobs

MAJOR retailer Marks and Spencer have said new food hall will create 90 new jobs for the town if plans are approved to convert the former Homebase site at Redlands, Poole Road, into a new Marks & Spencer site.

Speeding round-up of those caught driving over the limit

Dorset speeding cases: Drivers on A35 Puddletown Bypass and Upton Bypass fined, banned and sentenced at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court for excessive speeds.

Family sets up awareness charity in honour of 26-year-old who lost her life to cancer

Izzy was first diagnosed with stage one melanoma in 2018, when she was in her final year at Bournemouth University.

Paediatric nurse 'intended' to mislead others while looking after vulnerable child

The report says: "The panel was of the view that you knowingly gave a false impression to the reader of the relevant records that the important duties that you were supposed to have completed had been completed."

New steakhouse opens in former Café site in Poole

A new steakhouse has opened in Broadstone, taking over the former site of Café Karma.

RECAP: Heavy traffic due to accident on Ferndown road

Heavy traffic is being reported following an accident on Ringwood Road, Ferndown.

Man charged following serious crash involving tipper lorry

A man has been charged and is due to appear in court in connection with a road traffic collision near Dorchester

Aldi's plans for new supermarket at Canford Bottom approved

Aldi has won planning consent for a £7million supermarket off the Canford Bottom roundabout – despite 350 objections.

Lush closes all UK stores in solidarity with Palestine

All Lush stores across the UK will be closed today, along with its online platforms and factories, in solidarity with Gaza.

Strikes at Bournemouth Airport suspended after 'improved offer'

Planned strikes by Bournemouth Airport staff have been suspended following an improved pay offer.

Teenager rushed to hospital after being hit by car near pub

A 14-year-old boy was taken to hospital after a collision with a car in Poole.

Wanted woman located and arrested by police

A woman who was wanted on prison recall was located and arrested.

Stretch of A35 to close for nearly a month for drainage improvements

A stretch of the A35 is due to be closed for nearly a month for drainage improvements.

Officers attended three-vehicle crash in Poole

A three-vehicle collision was reported in Poole on Wednesday afternoon, leading to traffic disruption in the area.

'Precious and kind' woman found dead at home after cardiorespiratory arrest

Chanel Azran, 35, died at her home, Bristol and West House, on Post Office Road on May 9, 2025.

Man arrested following robbery in Southbourne

A man has been arrested following a robbery in Southbourne.

CEO of multi-academy trust leaves after 18 months

Authentic Education serves schools across Dorset, including primary academies Manorside Primary, Elm Academy and Queen's Park Academy as well as several secondary academies such as LeAF Studio and St Aldhelm's.

Yellow weather warning issued for thunderstorms by the Met Office

Train services may experience delays and there is a likelihood of short-term power outages and loss of other services.

Tesco Clubcard members can now get new rewards with updated offers

Tesco Cineworld where Clubcard members can get movie tickets for just £5 (£2.50 in Clubcard Vouchers) this month.

Sainsbury’s to trial controversial facial recognition technology in shops

Similar technology has been used in Home Bargains, Sports Direct and Asda, but it has been heavily criticised by privacy groups

'Broken ankles and legs' among incidents at beach in busy day for emergency services

The team worked along side Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Team, Wyke Coastguard CRT, St Albans Head, South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust and Lulworth and Durdle Rangers throughout the day.

Midwife shares how New Forest charity is helping mothers in Ukraine

NFFU provides baby supplies, hygiene products, and Baby Boxes filled with handmade clothes and essential items for new mothers.

Police on the hunt after reports of lewd acts on heathland

Police increase patrols at Upton Heath, Poole, after reports of lewd acts. Public urged to report suspicious behaviour for investigation and timely action.

Government

Babies and infants (Allergy Guidance) Bill

A Bill to make provision for a review of allergy guidance relating to the feeding and weaning of babies and infants; and for connected purposes.

Formula 1

Here’s the ultimate fan guide to the Italian Grand Prix

Plan your Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix weekend with our Monza ultimate fan guide – top tips and travel hacks, photo spots, food, and the best of Milan.

IndyCar star Colton Herta signed to Cadillac as test driver

IndyCar racer Colton Herta will spend the 2026 season as Cadillac’s test driver, following the signing of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as the team’s main driver pairing.

5 storylines we're excited about ahead of Monza

Should Hadjar step up to Red Bull for next year?

Former Renault Formula 1 driver Jolyon Palmer looks at Isack Hadjar's impressive maiden podium at Zandvoort – and whether a move to Red Bull for 2026 would be right for him and the team.

10 quiz questions on the Dutch GP and F1 history at Monza

Were you paying attention to all the action at Zandvoort? Test yourself in our quickfire quiz. We've got 10 questions for you on the Dutch Grand Prix, plus some on F1 history at Monza, as we get ready for this weekend's Italian GP.

What's the best F1 Fantasy line-up for Monza?

Monza. The fastest circuit on the Formula 1 calendar, where raw power, straight-line efficiency, and late-braking courage take centre stage. Which drivers and teams are set to thrive in F1 Fantasy, and who might struggle to keep up?

Handle with care – The broken trophies of F1 history

F1 trophies aren’t always built to last. From Verstappen’s shattered €40,000 Hungarian GP prize to McLaren’s LEGO explosion at Silverstone 2025, these broken cups have become iconic podium moments.

How F1 united to celebrate Isack Hadjar’s rookie podium

Hadjar’s Zandvoort podium was a sport-wide celebration, with praise from Hamilton, Verstappen, Gasly and more.

Vasseur on getting the best out of Hamilton and Leclerc

What tyres will the teams and drivers have in Italy?

Formula 1 moves swiftly on from Zandvoort to Monza for this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix – and Pirelli have confirmed the tyres that the teams and drivers will have available to them.

MS Dynamics

Boost productivity with precision wrap-up timers in Dynamics 365

In modern contact centers, operational efficiency hinges on how quickly service representatives can transition between customer interactions. One often overlooked but critical phase is the wrap-up period—when service representatives finalize notes, update records, and prepare for the next engagement. Until now, wrap-up timers in Dynamics 365 Contact Center were limited to minute-level granularity. However, administrators were looking for more granular control to have a shorter wrap-up period after conversations.  Administrators can now configure wrap-up timers in […]

The post Boost productivity with precision wrap-up timers in Dynamics 365 appeared first on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Blog.

Windows Central

Helldivers 2's new Terminid Hive Lord worms are skyscraper-sized boss fights so terrifying any diver would s**t their pants — here's how to kill them

Helldivers 2's new Into the Unjust update has added several new enemies, but Hive Lords — gigantic armored worm bosses — are the nastiest of the bunch.

Xbox's canceled Perfect Dark reboot was reportedly almost revived by Take-Two — but the deal fell through, and developer Crystal Dynamics was hit with layoffs

A new report claims that Xbox's canceled Perfect Dark reboot was almost revived by Take-Two Interactive

Microsoft and Cloudflare want to reinvent the web — and leave Google behind

With NLWeb and AutoRAG, Microsoft and Cloudflare want to make websites act like AI apps, delivering direct answers to people and agents while challenging Google’s dominance

Microsoft engineer found dead at Silicon Valley campus — sparks renewed debate over tech burnout

Microsoft engineer Pratik Pandey, 35, was found dead at the company’s Silicon Valley campus. His family believes overwork played a role, sparking renewed concerns over burnout, layoffs, and the demanding work culture in tech.

Call of Duty movie confirmed — Paramount and Activision team up for live‑action adaptation

Paramount and Activision are teaming up on a live-action Call of Duty movie, with Skydance CEO David Ellison calling it his passion project.

Hollow Knight: Silksong headlines Xbox Game Pass for September — here’s the full lineup

Xbox Game Pass kicks off September 2025 with Hollow Knight: Silksong, RoadCraft, PAW Patrol World, and more. Here’s the full list of new games, perks, and what’s leaving soon.

"Arrowhead, this is unacceptable" — Helldivers 2's huge Into the Unjust update is here, but this glaring problem is ruining the fun and the Xbox launch's goodwill

The exciting release of Helldivers 2's Into the Unjust update has been marred by severe bugs and performance issues introduced by the patch, and players are in an uproar.

Windows 11 hotkey conflicts are a pain — PowerToys just introduced a smarter way to manage them

Windows hotkey conflicts can be frustrating, but PowerToys v0.94 adds conflict detection to help you spot and fix clashing shortcuts.

How to switch from MBR to GPT and enable Secure Boot + TPM 2.0 on Windows 10

Learn how to convert MBR to GPT, switch BIOS to UEFI, and enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on Windows 10 to run modern games like Battlefield 6.

Ubisoft confirms Rayman’s return — with a remake reportedly launching in 2026 (and Rayman 4 could follow)

Ubisoft's Rayman series could be making a return, with a Rayman remake reportedly in development and targeting a late 2026 release window.

The most lavish indie drop of the year just skipped Xbox entirely

Blue Prince is getting a stunning physical edition packed with collectibles — but it’s exclusive to PS5. Despite the game’s success on Xbox Game Pass, there’s no Xbox disc, leaving fans disappointed.

CoD: WWII returns to the Microsoft Store and Xbox after a 41-day unplanned, controversial removal. Here's why.

Sledgehammer Games' Call of Duty: WWII was added to the Microsoft Store at the end of June, only to be removed on July 4 due to RCE hacks. 41 days later, WWII is back on the storefront.

PlayStation's 'Helldivers 2' lands the top spot on the Xbox Store — could more be on the way?

PlayStation and Xbox have been playing nice this summer, and this latest sales milestone might be a good indicator for what could happen next.

Ollama on WSL works just as well with Linux as it does natively on Windows 11 — but many of us won't ever use it this way

On Windows 11, you can use Ollama either natively or through WSL, with the latter being potentially important for developers. The good news is, it works well.

Cronos: The New Dawn is the most breathtaking survival horror debut on Xbox and PC in over a decade — if you can handle its repetitive sci-fi gameplay loop

Bloober Team proves its ascendancy to AAA with "Cronos: The New Dawn," which brings together aspects of all your favorite horror movies and games into one glorious whole.

Acer goes big at IFA 2025 — unveils gaming laptops galore and a gorgeous Copilot+ PC

At IFA 2025, Acer showed off the Swift Air 16, Nitro V 16, Helios 18P, and new Predator Orion desktops with RTX 50 GPUs.

Google ordered to help rivals like Microsoft improve Bing by sharing search data and letting Android phone makers preload apps like Edge and Copilot

A U.S. judge has ruled that Google will not have to sell Chrome or Android, but it will need to start sharing search data to help rival search engines and allow Android phone makers to preload non-Google browsers and assistants.

Files v4.0 is the ultimate 'File Explorer' replacement for Windows 11 — bringing a Fluent‑style redesign for Microsoft apps

Files v4.0 ships with a plethora of new features, including a refreshed logo design with richer colors to complement Fluent-designed apps from Microsoft.

Borderlands 4's new "Dynamic Events" is the farming mechanic I've been waiting for — "Variation is king" with unpredictable runs

Gearbox's Associate Creative Director, Grant Kao, recently explained how Dynamic Events improve the farming experience of Borderlands 4 in my recent interview.

Windows 10's October shutdown is fueling a "programmed obsolescence" outrage with a wave of e‑waste concerns —"I will not be buying a new PC just because of updates"

While Microsoft has provided an 'Extended Security Updates' program for those who can't upgrade from Windows 10, some users think it's "planned obsolescence".

Laffgaff

Which country won the first Rugby World Cup in 1987?

New Zealand.

Zombie

What do you call a zombie who doesn't joke around? Dead serious.