The News - Monday, 02 February 2026

BBC News

Lord Mandelson resigns from Labour Party over Epstein links

The former cabinet minister says he does not want to "cause further embarrassment" by his links to the late convicted paedophile.

'Do you think you're the devil himself?' Epstein questioned in newly released interview

The footage, which is part of millions of files released by the US Department of Justice, shows the late sex offender being questioned by an unnamed interviewer.

'Marry me' and £20,000 for rent - key Sarah Ferguson revelations in Epstein emails

The latest Epstein files will only add to embarrassment for the former Duchess of York.

Families take legal action after British tourists die following Cape Verde holiday illness

A law firm says it is representing the families of six people who holidayed in Cape Verde.

Bad Bunny makes Grammy history as he wins best album

Other prizes went to Billie Eilish, Olivia Dean and Lady Gaga, at a ceremony dominated by politics.

Stars hit red carpet at Grammy Awards show

A collection of some of the best looks from Sunday's awards in Los Angeles.

Aspiring Nigerian singer dies after being bitten by a snake

Ifunanya Nwangene, a former contestant in The Voice Nigeria, died after not getting the antivenom she needed.

Kennedy Center to close for two years for renovations, Trump says

The move follows several artists cancelling performances at the storied institution after it was recently renamed as the Trump Kennedy Center.

Starbucks bets on robots to brew a turnaround in customers

Chief executive Brian Niccol explains why he thinks AI will help the coffee giant regain its buzz.

China executes four more Myanmar mafia members

China has executed four members of the Bai family mafia, which ran scam centres in Myanmar, state media report.

Winners and nominees at the 2026 Grammy Awards - updating live

An updating guide to the main prizes at Sunday's 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

How Olivia Dean was crowned as the year's most exciting new artist

The Londoner confirmed her status as one of the pop world's biggest breakout stars in LA on Sunday.

Watch: the best looks of the 2026 Grammy Awards

'High Fashion' from stars such as Addison Rae, Olivia Dean, and more.

KPop Demon Hunters make history with early Grammy award

The Cure, Yungblud and FKA Twigs are the first British winners on the night in Los Angeles.

Did Beyoncé split country music in two?

Cowboy Carter winning the Grammy's country album of the year last year sent shockwaves through the industry.

Pornhub is now restricting access for UK users - will other sites follow suit?

The UK's largest porn site has blocked unregistered users from accessing it in the country, but its motives remain unclear.

The Papers: 'Mandelson under fire' and 'Bring justice for Epstein victims'

Lord Mandelson and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor facing fresh accusations amid latest Epstein files release leads Monday's papers.

India's snakebite crisis is killing tens of thousands every year

A new report has found that 99% of healthcare workers in India face challenges administering antivenom.

Syria's only female minister pushes for change: 'I'm not here for window dressing'

The BBC's Lyse Doucet follows Hind Kabawat as she confronts the challenges of fragmented, post-Assad Syria.

Not a fan of the gym? You can build these quick wins into your day

How you can make a big difference to your health and fitness without signing up for a marathon or joining a gym.

Three West African juntas have turned to Russia. Now the US wants to engage them

The US signals that restoring democracy is no longer a priority and it is ready to work with Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

Second Epstein victim claims she was sent to UK for sex with Andrew, lawyer says

The woman, then in her 20s, says the alleged encounter happened at Royal Lodge in 2010.

Norway's PM agrees crown princess had 'poor judgement' over Epstein links

Jonas Gahr Støre says he agreed with Princess Mette-Marit's own remarks over her contacts with the late sex offender.

Takeaways from the millions of newly released documents

Three million new documents include hundreds of mentions of Trump and emails between Epstein and a person called "The Duke".

Name of NI peace deal architect dropped from scholarship over Epstein links

George Mitchell chaired the talks which led to the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

Melania director Brett Ratner pictured cuddling woman in Epstein files

The images of Ratner with Epstein and unidentified women were released the same day as his documentary about the US first lady.

My children's lives have come to a standstill - but a new study offers hope

The £1.1m Rosetta Stone study hopes to make a breakthrough by comparing both conditions.

Drugs policy approach needs to change, Polanski says

The Green Party leader of England and Wales says there needs to be a "public health approach" as he reiterates his backing for the legalisation of drugs.

Harry Styles and Anthony Joshua among UK's top taxpayers

The former One Direction member-turned-solo artist appears on the Sunday Times list for the first time.

Boy, 5, and father detained by ICE return to Minnesota after release

The boy was released on the order of a judge who said his detention was "cruel" and "bereft of human decency”.

Venezuela releases rights activist Javier Tarazona

It is latest in a series of prisoner releases announced by the government amid US pressure for reforms.

Parents of girl, 7, swept out to sea on holiday speak of 'unbearable pain'

Tasneem and Zubair Makda say they are "forever changed" since their daughter was swept away by a wave.

Iranian protester Erfan Soltani released on bail, reports say

Reports in January had said he was due to be executed after his arrest in connection with anti-government protests.

Serial killer Steve Wright admits murder of teenager Victoria Hall in 1999

Steve Wright is already serving a whole life jail sentence for the murders of five women in 2006.

Grammy highlights - from a chaotic Cher to Sabrina's flight of fantasy

The best and worst moments of the 68th Grammy Awards, which were held in Los Angeles.

Captain guilty of North Sea tanker crash death

Vladimir Motin is convicted of gross negligence manslaughter after a crew member died in the crash.

Resident doctors vote in favour of more strike action

Members of the British Medical Association have backed more walkouts in the dispute over pay and jobs in England.

MP arrested over more alleged sexual offences

Dan Norris says he "vigorously" denies the allegations, which include rape and sexual assault.

Warning for sellers amid rollercoaster gold and silver prices

Experts say there are things to consider before selling off your gold or silver.

Terminally ill bride's final months marred by pension stress

Caoimhe was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2025 after an optician spotted bleeding behind her eye.

Drivers can compare fuel prices at different petrol stations - how does it work?

Pump price changes will have to be shared in a government database within 30 minutes.

AI 'slop' is transforming social media - and a backlash is brewing

Social media has been flooded with fake, AI-generated images and videos. But will the majority of users actually care?

Faisal Islam: Mandelson, Darling and the conversation I can't forget

The Epstein files appear to give extraordinary context to a call between the former chancellor and JP Morgan's boss.

'Marry me' and Epstein's 'baby boy' - key Sarah Ferguson revelations in emails

The latest Epstein files will only add to embarrassment for the former Duchess of York.

Trump threatens to sue Trevor Noah over joke at Grammys

The US president labels Noah a "total loser" over a joke he told on stage during the awards ceremony.

Starmer believes Mandelson 'should not be member of Lords'

He has ordered an urgent investigation into Lord Mandelson's contact with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while the peer was a minister.

Watch: Rome visitors divided over new €2 fee to access iconic Trevi fountain

Italy's capital city has introduced a €2 fee to access the viewing area of its iconic fountain, which had previously been free to visit.

Steve Wright - the 'cruel' serial killer who hated women

Steve Wright's admission that he murdered Victoria Hall confirms he killed six women over a seven-year period.

What is Moltbook - the 'social media network for AI'?

The Reddit-like website which launched in late January allows AI bots to speak to each other.

'Enemy' insults and questioning Putin: Steve Rosenberg on tightrope of reporting from Russia

The BBC's Russia editor reflects on the difficulties of working as a British journalist in Moscow.

What's going on with the price of gold?

Gold has fallen from recent highs but there are several reasons investors are still finding refuge in the precious metal.

See the full list of Grammy Awards winners

A guide to the main prizes at Sunday's 68th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

Men covertly filming women at night and profiting from footage, BBC finds

The BBC went undercover to investigate an industry where women are filmed at night without their knowledge.

Watch: Punxsutawney Phil emerges for Groundhog Day

Legend has it that if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow there will be six more weeks of winter, if not, spring is around the corner.

Israel reopens Gaza's key Rafah border crossing with Egypt

Only dozens of Palestinians and no goods will be able to cross in both directions each day.

XL Bullies mauled rapper's mum-in-law to death

A jury is told how leaving Esther Martin alone with 10 XL Bully dogs was "a recipe for disaster".

Melania Trump film beats box office predictions despite criticisms

The documentary about US First Lady Melania Trump has been panned, but is off to "a huge start".

Hollywood sign boss says CGI used as part of Sydney Sweeney bra stunt

The boss of the Hollywood Sign Trust says it would take hours to decorate the entire landmark with lingerie.

Ukraine hails 'real results' after Musk restricts Russian Starlink use

Starlink-enabled drones have been linked to a number of recent deadly attacks by Russia on Ukraine.

Bad Bunny makes history as stars protest against ICE

Other prizes went to Billie Eilish, Olivia Dean and Lady Gaga, at a ceremony dominated by politics.

Watch: Must-see moments from this year's ceremony

From 'ICE out' to Cher forgetting her lines, watch the best moments from this year's ceremony.

The most eye-catching looks, from Chappell Roan to Olivia Dean

A collection of some of the best looks from Sunday's awards in Los Angeles.

How Olivia Dean became Britain's new global star

The Londoner confirmed her status as one of the pop world's biggest breakout stars in LA on Sunday.

Bournemouth Echo

Cherries could host "large scale" concerts at Vitality Stadium under plans

The Cherries could be set to host “large scale” concerts at the Vitality Stadium, should their plans to expand the ground are approved.

£40 compensation payments to be paid for smart meter delays from next month

Ofgem said tougher smart meter rules will come into force from February

Then and now - school in the New Forest celebrates 250-year history

The Echo featured a special look at Brockenhurst Primary School in February 2001, capturing a period of significant growth and community spirit.

'We are growing stronger every year': Funds raised for bereavement charity

Residents, businesses and charities gathered at Rick Steins in Sandbanks to support The Good Grief Trust.

Bournemouth restaurants rank in Dorset’s top ten brunch spots

Bournemouth Claims Two Places in Dorset’s Top Ten Brunch Destinations

MP shares 'amazing experience' of being on board new Greenpeace boat

A Poole MP as shared the 'amazing experience' of being on Greenpeace's newest boat.

Couple spot 'magnificent' white tailed eagles at Hengistbury Head

A couple from Ringwood were amazed when they spotted two 'magnificent' white tailed eagles flying low above Hengistbury Head.

Play to focus on Dorset women down the years

A new play focussing on Dorset women through the centuries is coming to the county this summer - and organisers are looking for modern-day women to take part.

Man in 80s dies following moped crash in Christchurch

A man in his 80s has died following a collision involving a moped in Christchurch.

School saving council millions in fees

COOMBE House school is saving Dorset Council around £2.7million a year in fees.

Murder probe launched after man found critically injured dies in hospital

A MURDER probe has been launched after a man was found critically injured and later died in hospital.

Driver caught at 54mph as police step up New Forest speed checks

A driver was caught travelling at 54mph during a police enforcement operation in the New Forest as officers crcakdown on dangerous driving.

Woman missing for five months could be in Dorset

A WOMAN missing from Cumbria for five months could be in Dorset, as police share appeal.

Burglar flees home after being disturbed by noises

Valuable jewellery was stolen from a home in Branksome last week

Lloyds Bank temporarily closes branch in Ringwood

A BANK branch in Ringwood has temporarily closed for maintenance, as customers are told to use nearby services or online banking.

Large police presence in town after officers arrested wanted person

A PERSON who was wanted by the court was located and arrested after large police presence in Sturminster Newton.

Council confirms it wants to increase tax by 7.42 per cent

Council tax in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Polle is set to increase by 7.4 per cent this year if the government approves an additional rise.

Ofsted commended SEND college to host Open Day

A specialist education provider recently praised by Ofsted for “removing the barriers” facing students with SEND - is throwing its doors open to prospective new students, parents, and sector professionals this month.

Twin Sails bridge reopening TODAY after six-month closure

Twin Sails Bridge will reopen to all traffic after a six month closure due to ‘abnormal creaking’ noises found during a routine inspection.

Road remains closed after tree collapse

A ROAD remains closed following a landslip and tree collapse after heavy rainfall, as the Met Office issues a weather alert for the region.

Community Forum discusses Pokesdown Station and regeneration

Tom Hayes, Labour Member of Parliament for Bournemouth East, attended a Boscombe and Pokesdown Community Forum to discuss local priorities.

Trains cancelled after signal fault between Brockenhurst and Southampton Central

Many rail services from Bournemouth have been cancelled today due to signal failures Brockenhurst and Southampton Central.

Motorcycle stolen from property in Poole

A motorcycle was stolen from a property last week near Canford Heath.

Brewers Fayre and Beefeater restaurants announce 'kids eat free' scheme

Brewers Fayre and Beefeater, owned by Whitbread, have introduced a free kids’ meal deal scheme with every adult main meal purchased at their restaurants.

Man comes forward after alleged assault outside bar

A MAN has come forward after an alleged assault outside a bar in Bournemouth.

More heavy rain could 'exacerbate' flooding in Dorset

Further rainfall could exacerbate flooding today across Dorset in the wake of Storm Chandra, the Met Office has warned.

Alleged sex offender wanted by police

A man wanted in connection with alleged sexual offences is missing.

BBC Breakfast guest shares he thought 'life was over' after 'debilitating' diagnosis

Drummer Rupert Brown spoke on BBC Breakfast about how he thought his life was over after being diagnosed with tinnitus

Formula 1

Wolff admits Mercedes ‘simply don’t know’ what rivals can do

Toto Wolff has described himself as “really happy” over Mercedes’ smooth start to 2026 and F1’s all-new era of regulations at the Barcelona Shakedown, but admits the squad “simply don’t know” where they stand at this point.

Vesti confirmed as Mercedes’ Third Driver in 2026

Fred Vesti has been confirmed as Mercedes’ Third Driver for the 2026 season, with the Dane admitting that he is “extremely excited” to make the step up after working with the team for the past few years.

Button joins Aston Martin as Team Ambassador

F1 World Champion Jenson Button is joining Aston Martin as a Team Ambassador ahead of the 2026 season, the Silverstone-based squad have announced.

Antonelli outlines title goal ahead of 2026 season

Kimi Antonelli has set out his goal to “eventually fight for the World Championship” as he prepares for his second season in Formula 1, one in which he is “really looking forward” to competing against team mate George Russell.

Russell 'ready to fight for a World Championship'

George Russell says he's ready to fight for a World Championship in 2026, while also harboring hopes of going toe to toe with four-time champion Max Verstappen.

DRIVING TOMORROW: Button on the future of the F1 driver pathway

In the latest edition of Santander’s Driving Tomorrow series Jenson Button offers advice for prospective talents and discusses how F1 drivers of the future might get their start in racing.

Watch as Mercedes stage their 2026 F1 season launch

Mercedes are taking the latest step in their build-up to the 2026 campaign on Monday, with the team gathering for an official season launch event.

Newey ‘always teaching us something’ – Alonso

Fernando Alonso has been reflecting on Adrian Newey’s input after taking the designer’s debut Aston Martin car for its first laps during the Barcelona Shakedown, with the Spaniard admitting that Newey is “always teaching us something”.

Windows Central

Hot take: Windows 11’s new AI push feels incomplete because Microsoft ditched the one assistant that actually had a personality. Bring Cortana back and let her cook

Cortana wasn’t just an assistant, she was one of the few times Microsoft let itself be playful. Now that Copilot is the buttoned‑up default for Windows 11, there’s no reason fans shouldn’t get the option to choose Cortana as their AI persona.

8 new Windows 11 features expected to arrive with the February 2026 update — Patch Tuesday isn't flashy, but it'll deliver (some) meaningful changes

Windows 11's February 2026 update adds Cross-Device Resume, MIDI upgrades, Smart App Control changes, and performance improvements. Here's all you need to know.

Notepad++ compromised by "state-sponsored hackers" — Here's what you need to do if you use the popular Notepad alternative

The popular Notepad alternative's team just published a security update detailing the effects of a state-sponsored hack. Here's what you need to know, including how to protect yourself going forward.

Turkey moves to regulate digital game platforms — Steam and Epic could face access throttling under the new framework

Turkey is reviewing draft legislation that could impose strict requirements on digital game platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store, including local offices, age ratings, and potential bandwidth throttling.

Inside Microsoft’s chaos vocabulary: A former engineer explains why phrases like “even the fires are on fire” weren’t jokes, they were survival tools

Veteran engineer Raymond Chen revealed that Microsoft would often use corporate jargon like "on fire" to describe

Nioh 3 is a six-month timed PlayStation console exclusive — could an Xbox release happen?

Nioh 3 is launching as a timed PlayStation console exclusive, raising fresh questions about whether the action RPG series could finally arrive on Xbox despite its history.

Meta Quest 3 adds a "Surface Keyboard" — but it’s not a Microsoft Surface keyboard

Meta's Horizon OS v85 update adds a "Surface Keyboard" to Quest 3, allowing users to type on any flat desk.

Former Windows chief shared confidential Microsoft emails with Epstein — as leaders scrambled to contain the Surface RT disaster

Steven Sinofsky sought advice from Jeffrey Epstein in newly released Epstein files, revealing that the former Windows head shared confidential Microsoft emails with the disgraced financier in 2012-2013.

Microsoft plans to bury its NTLM security relic after 30 years — replacing it with stronger Kerberos-based alternatives via future Windows client releases

Microsoft recently highlighted a three-phase plan to disable the legacy New Technology LAN Manager (NTLM) protocol by default for stronger Kerberos-based alternatives in the next major Windows Server release and associated Windows client releases.

NVIDIA CEO denies reports he was 'unhappy' with OpenAI — reiterates plans for a "huge investment," but how much will it be?

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang joins in with other companies floating investment to save OpenAI from imploding.

Laffgaff

Cowboy Dinosaur

What do you call a dinosaur that wears a cowboy hat and boots? Tyrannosaurus Tex.

Who wrote the novel Little Women?

Louisa May Alcott.

Railway Security Guard

What's the difference between a teacher and a railway security guard? One trains the mind, the other minds the trains.

Itsfoss

Linux's Second-in-Command Greg Kroah-Hartman Bestowed With The European Open Source Award

Linux kernel maintainer honored at Brussels ceremony for decades of critical infrastructure work.

$69 in 2026 Gets You a Tool to Rejuvenate Old Computers

PicoIDE is a device that turns microSD cards into working hard drives and CD-ROMs for retro PCs.