The News - Tuesday, 28 October 2025

BBC News

Military sites to house asylum seekers in bid to end hotel use

Housing asylum seekers in hotels has cost billions, while they have also become a focal point for protests.

Chris Mason: As crises pile up, can the Home Office be fixed?

The government confronts a cluster of catastrophes, all linked to small boat crossings.

Prince Andrew hosted Epstein, Maxwell and Weinstein at Royal Lodge

The trio were at Andrew's mansion in 2006 as part of his daughter Beatrice's 18th birthday celebrations.

Productivity downgrade may add £20bn to Budget hole

The OBR is understood to have downgraded the UK's productivity level in early Budget forecasts

These robots can clean, exercise - and care for your elderly parents. Would you trust them to?

It sounds like something from a sci-fi film - but some scientists believe this clever new tech could help alleviate strains on the UK care system

Skip short strolls – a longer daily walk is better for your heart, says study

Walking for at least 15 minutes without stopping is ideal, according to new research.

Headlights to be reviewed after drivers complain of being 'blinded' at night

Concern over the glare from brighter headlamps is prompting the government to review vehicle design.

Key figures at odds over collapse of China spy case

A parliamentary committee hears evidence about why the case against two men accused for spying for China was dropped.

Turing AI Institute boss denies accusations of 'toxic internal culture'

Whistleblowers also accused the charity's leadership of misusing public funds and failing to deliver on its mission.

'My wife died in childbirth but wasn't told she'd been given labour drug overdose'

Jacqui Hunter died less than 24 hours after being told that her daughter had died in the womb.

The Papers: 'Migrants in barracks' and 'NHS printed my face'

New plans for alternative asylum seeker accommodation in the UK and an operation involving a 3D-printer make Tuesday's papers.

Boyband Five on their reunion: We are spectacularly lucky to get a second chance

The band are back together but say their early success was like being "in fight or flight mode."

Martin Freeman and Jack Lowden on incels, addiction and fatherhood

The Fifth Step focuses on the relationship between a recovering alcoholic and his sponsor.

How a Hollywood tour guide discovered an unknown celebrity grave

The Bride of Frankenstein actress Elsa Lanchester will be celebrated on October 28, her 123rd birthday.

Is my mobile lying to me? When 5G doesn't mean 5G

New research shows that 40% of the time a phone displays the 5G symbol, it is actually using a 4G connection.

Could one of these royal houses be Prince Andrew’s new home?

Prince Andrew's links with Jeffrey Epstein have prompted calls for him to be removed from his mansion.

Dutch volleyball player and convicted child rapist denied visa to compete in Australia

Steven van de Velde was convicted in 2016 of raping a 12-year-old British girl

Watch: Storm chasers fly inside the eye of Hurricane Melissa

Footage taken by a US Air Force Reserve crew known as the "Hurricane Hunters" shows the category five storm intensifying in the Caribbean.

Film and fashion stars celebrate cinematic style at Vogue World

Los Angeles played host to a spectacle of style and storytelling over the weekend.

Renters' Rights Bill becomes law - here's what it means for you

Sweeping new rules for renting in England receive royal assent - so what is changing?

The 92-year-old president who never loses

Cameroon's Paul Biya has extended his 43-year rule by wining a heavily disputed election.

UK signs £8bn Typhoon fighter jet deal with Turkey

The agreement will support thousands of jobs across the UK, the government says.

ChatGPT shares data on how many users exhibit psychosis or suicidal thoughts

The figure could mean potentially hundreds of thousands of users show signs of mental health distress weekly.

Why Hurricane Melissa's slow path makes it so dangerous

If it strikes Jamaica at close to full strength, it could eclipse all storms the island has experienced before.

Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales dies aged 93

Scales played hotel manager Sybil Fawlty, the bossy wife of Basil, in the classic British sitcom.

Councils paying school transport costs for 470,000 pupils in England

Local authorities say the cost of providing school transport is becoming "financially unsustainable".

What are the government's options on asylum seeker accommodation?

Where to put asylum seekers has become one of the fiercest topics of political debate since last year's general election.

Kate McCann cried during encounter outside family home, alleged stalker tells trial

Julia Wandelt, charged with stalking the McCanns, tried to present the pair with a DNA report, a court is told.

Man dies in triple stabbing as suspect arrested

A 22-year-old man was arrested at the scene and remains in police custody, the Met Police said.

Why one small town with very little immigration turned to Reform UK

How national concerns affected a local election in the heart of the Peak District.

Fear of mass killings as thousands trapped in besieged Sudan city taken by militia group

The UN says there are credible reports of "summary executions" in el-Fasher.

Amazon confirms 14,000 corporate job losses as it focuses on AI

The company says the opportunities provided by AI means it needs to be "organised more leanly."

Watch Prunella Scales's memorable moments in Fawlty Towers

Fawlty Towers actress Prunella Scales, best known for playing hotel manager Sybil Fawlty, has died aged 93.

These robots can clean, exercise - and care for you in old age. Would you trust them to?

It sounds like something from a sci-fi film - but some scientists believe this clever new tech could help alleviate strains on the UK care system

Rare earths, Nobel nomination and cheers: Trump ends Japan leg of Asia tour

The red carpet was rolled out for Trump by Japan's Sanae Takaichi, who has only been prime minister since last week.

Bella Culley's sentence reduced to two years

The pregnant 19-year-old faces drugs charges in Georgia and is back in court on Monday.

US kills 14 in strikes on four alleged drug boats in Pacific

It is the latest in a series of attacks on boats the US says have been carrying drugs in both the Pacific and Caribbean.

Most countries fail to submit new climate pledges ahead of summit

The UN's review of national climate plans shows the world is well off track to limit warming

Jeremy Corbyn to make cameo in drag pantomime

He will play the Wizard of Oz-lington this Christmas at the Pleasance Theatre in home constituency.

Australia deports first foreign detainees to Nauru in controversial deal

The first transfer of the so-called NZYQ cohort to the tiny Pacific island marks the start of a A$2.5bn agreement between Australia and Nauru.

Bournemouth Echo

Haunted theatre where cold spots, creepy figures and unseen presences are felt

With its ancient Priory, centuries-old pubs, and tales of smugglers, the town is steeped in spectral lore.

Coroner writes to health secretary after 22-year-old's sudden death

A CORONER has called for doctors to make changes to ensure all patients with epilepsy are informed of the risks of sudden unexpected death.

In The Dock: Thief stole eight bags of prawns from supermarket

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Oscar-winning actress calls new Dorset TV project 'absolutely marvellous'

Oscar-winning actress Olivia Colman has praised a new children’s TV project, calling it “absolutely marvellous” and “full of heart and proper creativity.”

Inquest adjourned into death of Bournemouth nurse on Greece holiday

The inquest into the death of a Bournemouth nurse has been suspended until 2026.

Motorcyclist was ‘chased, rammed and murdered’ over feud, court hears

A motorcyclist was allegedly chased, rammed and murdered over a long running feud between groups in West and East Howe, a court heard.

Motorcyclist sustained injuries after two vehicle collision

We are getting reports of a crash near Wallisdown road and road is partially blocked.

Thatched cottage fire prompts large emergency response

Multiple firefighters dealt with a fire at a thatched cottage late on Monday night, October 27.

Ex footballer puts huge mansion up for sale at £12 million

Former England footballer Adam Lallana is selling his seaside mansion for £12 million.

Extensive search underway for missing teenage boy

A SEARCH is underway for a missing teenager.

Emergency services called after motorcyclist injured in two-vehicle crash

A MOTORCYCLIST was conveyed to hospital after a two-vehicle crash in Bournemouth.

Missing 14-year-old 'may be with adult woman'

A police search has been launched in Wiltshire as a 14-year-old boy is still missing.

Asylum seekers who chased migrant hotel staff with knives are jailed

Two asylum seekers who 'exploded' over what food was being served at a migrant hotel have been jailed.

Father reveals 'horror' after being hit with £12.40 car parking fee at popular spot

A father has spoken of his ‘horror’ after being charged £12.40 for parking in a popular car park for just over an hour

Three people accused of murder to stand trial after motorcyclist killed

THREE people accused of murder are set to stand trial today after a motorcyclist died following a crash.

Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales dies aged 93 after 'remarkable' acting career

Actress Prunella Scales, best known for her role as Sybil in the memorable TV series Fawlty Towers, has died at the age of 93, her sons revealed.

Cottage fire being treated as suspected arson, says police

A cottage fire is being treated as suspected arson after a home went up in flames on Monday evening.

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Eligible households to receive confirmation of £150 energy bills discount

More than 250,000 families are to receive confirmation of a one-off £150 discount off their energy bills this winter, the Government has said.

The rare 50p coin that sold for 645 times its shop value on eBay - check behind sofa

A rare 50p coin has sold for 645 times its shop value - after a collector snapped it up for an eye-watering £322.88 on eBay.

Animal accidents in the New Forest 'could result in human fatality'

Campaigners have launched a new attempt to cut the number of animal accidents in the New Forest amid fears a motorist could be killed

New Food & Fun Festival coming to Southbourne in 2026

Southbourne Food & Fun Festival debuts 16 May 2026 at Fisherman’s Walk, showcasing Dorset and Hampshire food, drink, live music, workshops & eco initiatives.

Spooky family brunches in Bournemouth throughout Halloween week

Enjoy spooky family brunches at Mulligans Bournemouth this Halloween week, 27–31 October. Includes themed activities, crazy golf, and meals—pre-book online.

Care home team raise nearly £1,000 by sleeping outdoors

Parley Place care home staff raised £910 for YMCA Sleep Easy by sleeping outdoors.

Stewarts Christchurch Garden Centre marks 70th anniversary

Following this, BBC Gardeners' World Presenter, Adam Frost, spoke about his life, his career and the people that helped him along the way.

University lecturer wins major award for his research

The project aims to support future conservation work by understanding the impact the last 500 years of human activity has had.

Illuminated Halloween trail returns to popular park

Experience the spooky Halloween trail at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. Family-friendly event with a Dracula scene, neon spiders, food, until 2 Nov.

Dates announced for Beaulieu's 2026 motoring shows

Beaulieu announces 2026 events: classic car shows, Simply rally dates, BBC Gardeners' World Spring Fair, Autojumble, Supercar Weekend & more.

NHS Dorset warns of rise of winter bugs over half-term

Many pharmacies are open in the evenings and at weekends, and are running special walk-in flu clinics for two and three-year-olds.

'Human sacrifice' skeleton found at Bournemouth University dig

Bournemouth University students and volunteers discovered a skeleton, believed to be a human sacrifice, at an Iron Age settlement in Dorset, featured in the first episode of Channel 4’s Sandi Toksvig’s Hidden Wonders. Ongoing work suggests that the Iron Age Durotriges tribe were a matriarchal society.

Care homes raise nearly £100 for breast cancer charity

Colten Care homes across the south raised around £100 for Breast Cancer Now with Wear It Pink events, supporting the charity's work.

New law to protect families from dangerous housing conditions

Awaab’s Law comes into effect, requiring all social landlords to tackle damp and mould swiftly, following Awaab Ishak’s tragic death. Housing safety boosted.

Nominations open for charity to be supported by Morebus

Morebus opens nominations for local charities to become its corporate charity for 2026–2027, offering fundraising support and promotion opportunities.

Road resurfacing work is 'more environmentally friendly'

"By making the switch to low energy asphalt, we’ve already cut our carbon emissions from highways maintenance by around 15% compared to traditional methods."

RSPCA reveals black cats make up almost half of cats in its care

The charity has said black cats also face longer waits for adoption, averaging 71 days in care, compared to 64 days for tabby cats.

Six people from Salisbury Diocese awarded with special honour

Six from the Diocese of Salisbury receive the 2024 Cross of St Aldhelm for outstanding church and community service, awarded at Salisbury Cathedral.

New company set up to drive development of Dorset Innovation Park

Dorset Innovation Park Ltd was launched at the site in Winfrith Newburgh to spearhead the development of the park into a leading centre for advanced engineering, defence technology, and clean energy innovation.

Former cafe set to turn into jewellers 'where luxury meets legacy'

Marsh's Jewellery is opening a store at 22-24 High Street in Ringwood, with a grand opening taking place on November 29.

'Really fun' 48-hour film contest to return to Bournemouth

Shooting From The Hip 48-hour film contest returns to Bournemouth in November 2025. Free entry for all participants; screenings at The Lighthouse, Poole.

New director appointed at serviced offices in Dorset

He will also be tasked with maintaining high client satisfaction levels.

Care home residents celebrate Diwali festival of light

Colten Care homes across the region celebrated Diwali with Indian feasts, Bollywood-style dancing, crafts and cultural activities.

Beauty salon wins consumer award at England Business Awards

IlluminEye Lashes & Brows in Ashley Cross wins the Consumer Award at the England Business Awards Dorset for its customer service and professionalism.

Pupils become the first in UK to achieve new environmental award

Pupils from Purbeck have become the first in the UK to achieve the new Level 2 Environmental Leaders Award.

Cafe that's a "very special place" shortlisted in Daily Echo competition

A cafe in Bournemouth described as a “very special place” has been shortlisted in the Daily Echo’s Café of the Year competition.

Teen apprentice showcased by award-winning London hotel

A teenager from Poole has been featured by Claridge's on International Chefs Day.

'Calming' shed opens at museum to welcome visitors of all ages

Museum of East Dorset unveils new sensory shed, offering inclusive, calming space and free sensory backpacks for visitors with special needs.

Poole nature reserve crowned winner in annual competition

Wayne Hancock, chair of the Friends, was presented with the Blue Plaque commemorating their success by Kate Merna, co-owner of Compton Acres.

Art exhibition showcasing talented local artists now open

Discover the Fordingbridge Art Club exhibition at The Annexe, Avonway—showcasing award-winning art in oils, watercolours, acrylics and more until 1 Nov.

'Be respectful': Police urge people to celebrate Halloween safely

Retailers are similarly being asked to be careful when selling products like flour, eggs and alcohol which could lead to anti-social behaviour.

Long-time player wins £65,000 from just £1 stake on The Pools

A Bournemouth resident wins £65,000 from a £1 stake on The Pools’ Lucky Clover, correctly predicting 5 Irish Lottery numbers.

Housing tenants urged to know their rights under Awaab's Law

The New Forest District Council urges housing tenants to know their new rights under Awaab’s Law, ensuring urgent action on damp, mould and unsafe electrics.

Huge tax change for many Dorset families to be aware of

"In most cases, IHT liabilities are expected to rise, making early planning essential for business owners, farmers and individuals with pension savings."

Firm celebrates 40 years with business support organisation

Ellis Jones Solicitors, based in Dorchester, marks 40 years as a member of Dorset Chamber.

'Must-have' Paddington Bear 50p coin on sale for £8,586.68

A rare 2019 Paddington Bear 50p coin featuring the Tower of London is on sale for £8,586.68. Listed as a "must-have" for collectors.

Formula 1

Stella says Piastri 'should be proud' of Mexico fightback

McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella believes that Oscar Piastri "should be very proud of himself" after fighting back during a difficult Mexico City Grand Prix to finish fifth.

F3 Champion Camara graduates to F2 with Invicta Racing

Invicta Racing have announced the signing of 2025 FIA Formula 3 Champion Rafael Camara for the 2026 Formula 2 season, confirming the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy member’s graduation to the second tier.

Which drivers impressed our judges in Mexico?

Lando Norris converted pole position into a flawless lights-to-flag victory at the Mexico City Grand Prix, but who else joined the McLaren driver at the top of the Power Rankings table? Check out the latest scores and overall leaderboard below...

Lawson retired in Mexico with a ‘destroyed’ car

Liam Lawson had a very short Grand Prix in Mexico City, the Kiwi racer the first to retire after a handful of laps thanks to car damage picked up at the start. He made contact with Carlos Sainz into the first corner, and parked up soon after.

Aston Martin confirm Crawford as third driver for 2026

Aston Martin have confirmed that Formula 2 Championship hopeful Jak Crawford will serve as their third driver for 2026.

FIA confirm findings from 2024 Cost Cap review

The FIA have confirmed that its review of the F1 teams’ and power unit manufacturers’ compliance with the 2024 financial regulations has been completed, with Aston Martin entering an Accepted Breach Agreement (ABA) following a minor procedural breach.

Bortoleto reflects on 'great result' in Mexico City

Gabriel Bortoleto believes scooping up the final point in the Mexico City Grand Prix was "definitely a great result", the Kick Sauber driver having climbed up from 16th on the grid.

‘Far too many issues’ for Sainz to score in Mexico City

Williams came into the Mexico City weekend full of hope for a strong showing – and Carlos Sainz’s pace certainly gave the team plenty of early encouragement. But it all unravelled on race day for the Grove-based team, with neither driver able to score.

Why Red Bull's upgrades failed to perform in Mexico

Fighting to keep Max Verstappen in championship contention, Red Bull continues with its aggressive development of the RB21 long after its rivals have devoted themselves fully to their 2026 cars. But how did the new upgrades perform in Mexico City?

Vasseur offers verdict on Ferrari's 'good' Mexico result

Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur believes that the Mexico City Grand Prix "weekend overall for us is a good one" as Charles Leclerc claimed another podium and Lewis Hamilton showed strong pace.

Windows Central

The Outer Worlds 2 PC system requirements aren't bad, but oof — that file size makes my SSD weep, and the recommended specs are nothing to scoff at, either

Obsidian's long-awaited Xbox Game Pass RPG The Outer Worlds 2 is almost upon us, but can you run it? Here are the requirements you need to know.

Satya Nadella is skipping Ignite 2025 — Judson Althoff will lead the keynote instead

Microsoft has confirmed that Satya Nadella will be skipping Ignite 2025, with newly appointed CEO of commercial Judson Althoff leading the main keynote instead.

The survival horror classics you need to revisit ahead of Resident Evil Requiem

The Resident Evil Remake Trilogy, Resident Evil 7 and Village, and the timeless Resident Evil HD Remaster are all enjoying a special Halloween sale for PC at Loaded.

The one weird trick that FINALLY fixed Call of Duty crashing on my PC — and it only takes a couple of minutes

I don't understand why the constant crashing was fixed by fiddling with my RAM, but it worked.

What is AMD's 'Gorgon Point' APU? Here's what I know so far about the next-gen chip.

Rumors and leaks suggest that AMD is working on a new Gorgon Point APU for 2026. Here's everything I know so far.

Stop using your laptop's low-quality webcam! Here's how to use your Android phone as a camera on Windows 11 instead

You can use your Android smartphone as a webcam in Windows 11 with a few steps, and some are even easier to set up than others. Here's how it works.

Battlefield RedSec FAQ: Release date, cross-play, file size, and other questions about this new Battle Royale mode answered

Battlefield: RedSec is the newest free-to-play battle royale mode for Battlefield 6, officially launching today, October 28, 2025.

Microsoft is reportedly being less than truthful about its OpenAI dealings — hiding a $4.7 billion loss under "other expenses"

Microsoft is trying to keep its dealings with OpenAI under wraps, seemingly burying a $4.7 billion loss by the ChatGPT maker in its latest annual report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

Stop Guessing: All Battlefield 6 Redsec PC system requirements explained for the battle royale mode's launch

Battlefield Redsec, the new battle royale mode from Battlefield Studios, launches today with surprisingly modest PC requirements despite its impressive visuals. Built on Battlefield 6’s foundation.

OpenAI won't sever its ties with Microsoft, even after declaring AGI — unless an independent expert panel verifies the claim

Microsoft and OpenAI have signed a new definitive agreement to further strengthen the multibillion-dollar partnership and set up both companies for success in the future.

OpenAI's staggering mental health crisis revealed — Millions use ChatGPT like a therapist, but that's about to change

OpenAI has provided some internal numbers related to users who seek help from GPT-5, and they're a lot bigger than I was expecting. The AI firm has laid out details as to how it's combating the issue.

Is the Battlefield 6 Redsec battle royale mode free to play?

Will you need to buy Battlefield 6 in order to play its new battle royale mode, Redsec? The answer lies within.

You don't have to play The Outer Worlds before its sequel — but it's worth revisiting the origins of a grim comedy sci-fi classic

Newegg is offering a special 71% discount for the first game in The Outer Worlds series, giving players an affordable means to experience this grim yet funny Sci-fi universe, in case they want to experience what the original game is like before diving into The Outer Worlds 2, or can't afford it.

How to get started with Microsoft Copilot on Windows 11 — A beginner's guide to the AI chatbot and its many integrations

Copilot is more than just an app on Windows 11, and in this guide, I'll outline the steps to get started with the AI chatbot and actions with the app and the integration across the desktop.

Logitech's sleek G515 Lightspeed TKL keyboard delivers "no-fuss, low-profile" gaming without the bulk or the big bucks

Newegg is offering a limited-time 31% discount for the Logitech G515 Lightspeed, along with a $15 discount code for it, giving PC gamers a chance to own this slickly designed, well-performing TKL keyboard for less.

Halo: Campaign Evolved prequel missions tell an entirely new story — bringing new enemies, environments, and more

Speaking with Halo Studios, the developers working on Halo: Campaign Evolved confirmed that the game's new prequel missions are entirely new.

Laffgaff

Which planet in our solar system has the shortest day?

Jupiter.

Clever Pumpkins

Why are jack o'lanterns more clever than other pumpkins? The candle makes them brighter.