The News - Thursday, 01 January 2026

BBC News

How the 'postcode lottery' of parenting really impacts young children

BBC Radio 4's Today will follow six parents for five years, chronicling the ups and downs of looking after a young child in modern Britain.

What are Russians hoping for in 2026, asks Steve Rosenberg

The BBC's Russia editor speaks to people in the country as the war in Ukraine nears a fourth year.

We fought for 33 years to abolish not proven verdict after our daughter's murder

The centuries-old verdict has been scrapped after decades of controversy about its use in Scottish criminal trials.

Detective and crime novelist among new Traitors contestants

A barrister, nursery school teacher and cyber security expert will also enter the TV show's castle.

Anthony Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

Two of the former world champion's closest friends were killed in the accident on Monday.

Children from struggling families to be offered jabs at home

The scheme is being tested in some areas of England as part of a government plan to prioritise children's health.

Trump says he is withdrawing National Guard troops from some US cities

It comes after the Supreme Court ruled against his use of troops for domestic law enforcement.

Condom tax and cheaper childcare: China's plan to boost birth rates

Chinese people pay a 13% sales tax on contraceptives from 1 January, while childcare services are exempt.

Energy prices rise slightly for millions of households as temperatures fall

Millions of households in England, Wales and Scotland are seeing a slight rise in energy bills in the new year.

Starmer vows to 'defeat decline and division' in new year message

The PM acknowledges "things have been tough" but says 2026 will see "positive change".

Strictly's Ellie and Vito still dancing together every week

From Strictly sequins to presenting dreams, Ellie Goldstein speaks about her future ambitions.

The Papers: PM's 'year of proof' and 'fight' with judges over Shamima Begum

Sir Keir Starmer's New Year promise to voters and developments in the case of Shamima Begum lead Thursday's papers.

Intriguing finds could solve mystery of women in medieval cemetery

There is growing evidence that the women were part of an early female religious community.

The £3m race to save polar explorer Shackleton's villa

The building was used as a base by Shackleton while he orchestrated the famous rescue of his stranded crew

The Archers cast recreate first episode for 75th anniversary

The recording of the first episode didn't survive, so the current cast have recreated the opening scene.

Bulgaria joins the euro after rocky path to new currency

The move is dividing the nation - some welcome it as a bold leap forwards, but others fear it will lead to economic stagnation.

EU's top diplomat rejects Russian claims of Ukrainian attack on government sites

It comes as Russia releases video which it claims shows a downed Ukrainian drone launched at one of Putin's residences.

Disney worker hurt stopping 180-kg fake boulder from hitting audience

The worker is "recovering" after he was seen on video being knocked off his feet by the 400-lb (180kg) rubber Indiana Jones prop.

Man, 23, stabbed to death in New Year's Eve attack

The Metropolitan Police says he was pronounced dead at the scene and no arrests have been made.

Man charged with murder after car hits pedestrian

Liverpool fan Ruben Nunes, 34, died at the scene of the crash on Chapel Close, the Met Police said.

Iran protesters try to break into government building as unrest continues

Video verified by the BBC shows a crowd breaking the gate of the governor's office in Fasa.

Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

Two of the former world champion's closest friends were killed in the accident on Monday.

McIlroy's omission from honours list questioned

After Rory McIlroy completed a career grand slam in 2025, there were calls for him to be knighted.

BBC reports from the scene of Swiss resort bar fire

The BBC's Silvia Costeloe says the bar where the fire broke out has been around for at least 40 years, and is considered an institution in the area.

Disbelief in Crans-Montana on New Year's Day

BBC's Silvia Costeloe says the fire happened in the beating heart of lively Crans-Montana.

Video shows fire spreading across bar ceiling

The moment a Swiss bar was set ablaze appears to have been captured on video.

What we know so far

Several dozen people are presumed to have died in the fire at a New Year party in the resort of Crans-Montana.

UK to 'robustly defend' stripping Begum of citizenship in European court, source says

The ECHR questions whether it was considered if Shamima Begum was a victim of grooming and trafficking.

Crypto users forced to share account details with tax officials

The move is designed to ensure people pay all relevant tax on buying and selling crypto.

The best pictures from around the world as 2026 begins

From spectacular firework displays to chilly sea dips, nations celebrate the start of 2026.

Detective and crime novelist among contestants on new Traitors series starting tonight

A barrister, nursery school teacher and cyber security expert will also enter the TV show's castle.

Dad pays tribute to 'wonderful family' killed in Boxing Day fire

Tom Shearman pays tribute to his wife and two children after a fire engulfed their home.

US military says five killed in latest strike on alleged drug boats

The latest strike comes as the US Coast Guard searches for survivors of another that happened a day earlier.

Stranger Things draws to an epic and emotional close

Fans gathered at premieres in cities across the US and Canada to watch the finale on the big screen.

Zelensky says peace deal is 90% ready in New Year address

Russian President Vladimir Putin used his New Year speech to tell troops that he "believed in you and our victory" in Ukraine.

Energy prices rise slightly for millions of households as temperatures fall

Millions of households in England, Wales and Scotland are seeing a slight rise in energy bills in the new year.

Gladiator Giant to revert to birth surname... Bigg

Jamie Christian-Johal said his recent divorce and ADHD diagnosis prompted the move.

How the 'postcode lottery' of parenting really impacts young children

BBC Radio 4's Today will follow six parents for five years, chronicling the ups and downs of looking after a young child in modern Britain.

Strictly's Ellie and Vito still dancing together every week

From Strictly sequins to presenting dreams, Ellie Goldstein speaks about her future ambitions.

We fought for 33 years to abolish not proven verdict after our daughter's murder

The centuries-old verdict has been scrapped after decades of controversy about its use in Scottish criminal trials.

Social media fuelled Mamdani's rise. Can he keep the momentum as New York mayor?

To succeed in office he will need to keep his supporters engaged with day-to-day governing, experts say.

What are Russians hoping for in 2026, asks Steve Rosenberg

The BBC's Russia editor speaks to people in the country as the war in Ukraine nears a fourth year.

Some families to be offered immunisations at home in bid to boost vaccine uptake

The scheme is being tested in some areas of England as part of a government plan to prioritise children's health.

Anthony Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

Two of the former world champion's closest friends were killed in the accident on Monday.

Netherlands police face 'unprecedented' New Year's violence

Reports of fireworks and other explosives being thrown are widespread across the country.

Starmer vows to 'defeat decline and division' in new year message

The PM acknowledges "things have been tough" but says 2026 will see "positive change".

Annual Channel migrant crossings highest since 2022

The 2025 total is the highest since 2022, when nearly 46,000 migrants made the crossing.

Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

Two of the former world champion's closest friends were killed in the accident on Monday.

Bournemouth Echo

Meet the 66-year-old Hampshire retiree taking part in The Traitors for 2026

Ben is a retiree from Hampshire who will be taking part in The Traitors for its fourth series on the BBC in 2026

How this luxurious modern hotel was once a quirky school

Long before it was a welcoming hotel, this was a private house rich in the scents of beeswax polish and chimney smoke.

Litter Free Dorset annual summit announced

Litter Free Dorset has announced its annual Summit 2026, taking place in January at in Dorchester.

Cliff top path and parts of beach closed following substantial cliff fall

AFTER substantial cliff fall, council have temporarily closed a 650-metre section of the cliff top path at Barton on Sea due to safety reasons.

'Please don't forget us' as donations run low post-Christmas

A BOURNEMOUTH foodbank is appealing for donations following a busy Christmas period, as donations begin to run low.

'I want us to be positive': BCP council and MPs share their hopes for 2026

FROM huge scale investments and cutting tax to reducing roadworks and regenerating the high street – BCP’s MPs and council share their visions for 2026.

Care home residents enjoy day of football and friendship

Care home residents enjoyed a morning of sport, friendship and fun at Ringwood Community Hub.

'Our hearts are heavy': Bar closed after eight years serving residents

AN ALE bar has closed its doors after eight years, with the owners saying the decision was made with “heavy hearts”.

Police enforcement operation carried out on Dorset's roads

Following a number of recent serious injuries and fatal road traffic collisions on Dorset roads, the force's Roads Policing Team has conducted New Year’s Eve enforcement operation targeting the "fatal five".

Child stabber, cat killer and fatal car crashes: Biggest cases of 2025

OVER the past year Dorset has seen tragic, horrifying and strange court cases – here are the 10 most notable.

Thirteen-time heart surgery survivor uses his story to inspire and help others

A man who once relied on a charity for support during 13 life-saving heart surgeries has come full circle by joining the very organisation that helped him through his toughest moments

Snow could fall in BCP as Met Office issues warning

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole set to be hit with snow as the Met Office issues a weather warning

Road cordoned off after man injured in stabbing

A MAN and a woman have been arrested under suspicion of attempted murder after a stabbing in Christchurch.

PICTURES: Impact of cliff fall as tonnes of rock crash onto beach

Dramatic pictures show the impact of a massive rockfall which has partially blocked part of a beach in Dorset

School forced to close until January 8 after leak

A Hampshire school will remain closed due to a water leak

Find your flow: the power of sauna and cold-water therapy

As we step into 2026, wellness trends continue to evolve, but one ritual stands out for its timeless benefits: contrast therapy

Natural Healing Bournemouth – holistic wellness under one roof

What if transforming your health didn’t mean jumping between clinics, juggling appointments, or feeling like you were trying to fix yourself in pieces? What if everything you needed — chiropractic care, massage, acupuncture, yoga, Pilates, physical rehab, meditation and...

'Thanks to wonderful NHS staff'

On Christmas Day I suffered a heart attack completely unexpectedly, never having had symptoms.

AFC Bournemouth players spread cheer with visits to care homes

Care home residents in Bournemouth and Poole enjoyed a festive treat after receiving a special visit from some of AFC Bournemouth’s rising young football stars.

New food waste recycling collection coming soon to Poole

A food waste recycling collection service will be rolled out to Poole this spring.

Bake Off confirms a show first for 2026 - how you can get involved in new change

The Great British Bake Off has confirmed a first-ever change to its 2026 series, by introducing audience choice week - how to get involved

Dorset contestant set to join brand new series of The Traitors 2026

The BBC has confirmed the full line-up for The Traitors 2026 as the popular BBC show filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands returns.

How to complete Dry January in 7 simple steps - it's actually easier than you think

Dry January is the calendar month where we try and reign in the drinking a little bit.

Formula 1

Mekies set out expectations for Hadjar in 2026

Laurent Mekies has shared an insight into Red Bull’s expectations for Isack Hadjar as the French driver prepares to make the step up from Racing Bulls to partner Max Verstappen at the squad in 2026.

Lawrence Barretto’s 5 bold predictions for 2026

Ahead of the 2026 campaign, F1.com's Lawrence Barretto shares his five bold predictions for what might unfold.

Windows Central

If you ditched Xbox for PC in 2025, this Hall Effect gamepad is the first accessory you should grab

Transitioning from Xbox to PC gaming? The GameSir Super Nova is the perfect bridge, expecially at its discounted price.

Minecraft’s 2025 end‑of‑year stats prove the game is still a global phenomenon with numbers most franchises can only dream of

Now that 2025 is nearly over, many are looking back at the last year of gaming fun. That includes Mojang, which just shared some fun Minecraft community stats.

These 8 targeted Microsoft Teams updates close out the year — but some features feel like overdue fixes

Microsoft Teams ended the year with eight targeted updates, including smarter interpreter behavior, new call queue recording options, and domain-spoofing protection.

Laffgaff

What is the only country in the world whose name starts with ‘O’?

Oman.

Ice Cream Puns

I tried looking up ice cream puns on the internet. Then my browser froze.

Itsfoss

FOSS Weekly #26.01: Distros of 2026, Terminal Customization, CachyOS Server Edition and More Linux Stuff

The first FOSS Weekly of the year 2026.

13 Open-Source Apps I Use from a Web Browser (And You Can Too)

You don't always need to install an open source software on your desktop or self host in your homelab. I use some of my favorites from the comfort of a web browser.