The News - Sunday, 08 March 2026

BBC News

Trump says he does not need UK aircraft carriers to win war with Iran

The remarks come after a public back-and-forth between Trump and Sir Keir Starmer over UK involvement the US's joint offensive with Israel against Iran.

How I've learned that certainty is the thing to really fear

After five decades hosting radio phone-ins and debates, Nicky Campbell reflects on the state of public debate

'Our children paid the ultimate price' – How the Dunblane school shooting changed Britain

A new BBC documentary charts how the murders of 16 children and their teacher in March 1996 led to a handgun ban in the UK.

Jessie Buckley says acting helped her overcome eating disorder as a teenager

The Oscar-frontrunner says acting is "like water to me" as she credits her craft with helping her mental health.

King reflects on 'pressures of conflict' in Commonwealth message

King Charles hails the value of the Commonwealth in divided times in his annual message.

Dozens killed as Israeli special forces raid Lebanese village in search of 40-year-old remains

Overnight, one Israeli operation saw at least 41 people killed and 40 injured, according to the Lebanese health ministry.

Navy readying aircraft carrier for deployment as Iran conflict deepens

The move may raise speculation HMS Prince of Wales could be sent to defend British interests during the Middle East conflict.

UK to charter flight for British nationals out of Dubai

The flight is due to depart from Dubai early next week for British nationals wanting to leave the region.

Why did Iran's president apologise?

The apology may hint at a political repositioning inside Iran, writes BBC Persian's Amir Azmi.

Why did US and Israel attack Iran and how long could the war last?

Conflict has spread across the Middle East since the US and Israel launched wide-ranging strikes on Iran on 28 February.

Spectacular images reveal unique sea creatures and corals off Caribbean islands

Scientists discover underwater mountain ranges, golden towers of coral, and never-before-seen sea creatures.

Dancers loved practising in this Singapore walkway. Then the complaints came

In super-organised Singapore, disputes over public space are a battle between control and chaos.

I donated my eggs to a woman I met on the Tube

The story of how a chance encounter between two women on the Piccadilly line led to an IVF baby.

'Death of a monster' and 'Blair rebukes Starmer'

Soham murderer Ian Huntley's death following a prison attack dominates today's papers.

The heartwarming tale of a father, a daughter, and a wedding band wowing India

Band Baaja Bitiya is the moving tale of a father who goes to rescue his daughter from her matrimonial home.

Rapper-politician Balendra Shah unseats Nepal's ex-PM as he heads for victory

Thursday's general election was the first since violent youth-led protests toppled the government in September.

Timothée Chalamet triggers backlash over ballet and opera remarks

In an interview, the Oscar-nominee danced into some online controversy after claiming no one cares about ballet and opera.

Police given more time to question Iran spying suspects

An Iranian and three dual British-Iranian nationals were arrested on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service.

Canada's PM calls for Andrew to be removed from line of succession

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office last month.

Coastguards lower dog owner down cliff to rescue pet

Luna the cocker spaniel was too scared to be caught by rescuers so her owner was brought in to help.

'Night turned into day': Iranians tell of strikes on oil depots

Fuel depots were hit in Tehran and Karaj overnight, with videos showing huge fires and plumes of smoke in multiple locations.

'Mind boggles' at doubts over legality of Iran war, Israeli president says

Isaac Herzog says Israel is acting out of "self-defence" on behalf of Israel, the wider region and Europe.

Watch: 'This is a moment of grave peril', says UN humanitarian chief

UN Humanitarian Affairs Lead Tom Fletcher speaks to the BBC about the conflict in the Middle East.

UK opens charter flights booking portal for Britons in Dubai

It comes after thousands of flights had been cancelled in the Middle East in the past week.

Starmer and Trump speak for first time since president's Iran criticism

The phone call comes after a week in which Donald Trump repeatedly expressed frustration at Keir Starmer's stance on Iran.

'Our children paid the ultimate price': The school shooting that changed Britain

A new BBC documentary charts how the murders of 16 children and their teacher in March 1996 led to a handgun ban in the UK.

Hamnet star Jessie Buckley says acting helped her overcome eating disorder as a teenager

The Oscar-frontrunner says acting is "like water to me" as she credits her craft with helping her mental health.

Unanswered questions as search for Nancy Guthrie enters a new month

The disappearance of the mother of TV presenter Savannah Guthrie captivated the US, but police have not made any arrests.

Explosion at US embassy in Oslo may have been terrorism, Norway police say

Police say they are investigating other motives after the blast caused minor damage to the embassy building.

Nicky Campbell: How I've learned that certainty is the thing to really fear

After five decades hosting radio phone-ins and debates, Nicky Campbell reflects on the state of public debate

Police separate Celtic and Rangers fans after Ibrox pitch invasion

Flares were thrown as supporters from both sides spilled onto the pitch after Celtic's 4-2 win on penalties.

Man dies outside UK's first drug consumption room

Police sealed off the entrance to The Thistle on Hunter Street on Sunday morning, and said the death was not believed to be suspicious.

King reflects on 'pressures of conflict' in Commonwealth message

King Charles hails the value of the Commonwealth in divided times in his annual message.

Boy, 12, among six dead as tornadoes hit Michigan and Oklahoma

The storms uprooted trees, downed power lines, damaged buildings and ripped the roofs off some houses.

Swiss reject right-wing plan to cut licence fee for public broadcaster

More than 60% voters said they wanted to keep the current licence fee levels, initial projections show.

Police separate Celtic and Rangers fans after Ibrox pitch invasion

Flares were thrown as supporters from both sides spilled onto the pitch after Celtic's 4-2 win on penalties.

Bournemouth Echo

Take a look inside this quirky Dorset barn once converted by an eccentric architect

This characterful Dorset home, transformed by a famously eccentric architect, is our property of the week

'Someone I trusted used that position to abuse': Patient speaks after doctor jailed

A patient that was sexually abused by a doctor in Bournemouth has spoken out following his sentencing.

New 'authentic Turkish restaurant' to open in Poole

AN ‘AUTHENTIC and modern’ Turkish restaurant is set to open in Tower Park, along with two big-named brands.

'Sea, Soul and and food which transports you to the Mediterranean'

Warmth, hospitality and a table full of some of the freshest seafood I've tasted in the UK to day set the perfect tone for a memorable midweek dining experience.

Roadworks set to cause delays across BCP start tomorrow

Planned roadworks have been announced by BCP Council and are expected to cause delays of varying severity.

'Families want to see transparency' - SEND reforms spark concern

A PARENT and founder of a Bournemouth support group for families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has said parents are worried about the future of their children following proposed changes to the SEND system.

6 deaths linked to 'ongoing outbreak' of fatal bacterium found in certain wet wipes

Six deaths have now been associated with an "ongoing outbreak" of a Burkholderia stabilis found in four non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Foreign Office advice that Brits need to know about

This is the latest travel advice from the UK Foreign Office for any Brits heading to Egypt amid the Middle East war

Firefighters, residents and politicians fight back against proposed fire service cuts

Residents, firefighters and politicians gathered for a public meeting on Saturday in Poole in a bid to save a community fire station from permanently closing.

Beach with 'honey-hued sands' among 5 in Dorset named among UK's best for 2026

Dorset beaches, including Durdle Door and Shell Bay, have been named among the UK's best for 2026

Restaurant that's 'brilliant on every level' among 10 neighbourhood gems in Dorset

Restaurants in Bournemouth, Weymouth and Sherborne were named among Dorset's 10 best neighbourhood gems by OpenTable

93-year-old tennis player to speak to local tennis club on history of Wimbledon

Shirley Critchley, former world No.4 and Dorset tennis star, to give an illustrated talk on Wimbledon history at East Dorset Tennis Club, Poole.

Dog travels 140 miles from Jersey for 3D printed spinal treatment in Ringwood

Miniature schnauzer Eevee from Jersey recovers after complex spinal surgery at Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists, Ringwood. Advanced vet care success.

New permanent vice-chancellor confirmed at Arts University Bournemouth

A PERMANENT vice chancellor and chief executive officer has been confirmed by Arts University Bournemouth's boards.

Female business owners gather for Momentum Day celebration

More than 70 female business owners gathered in Bournemouth for The Momentum Day, an annual event created by entrepreneur and mentor Erin Thomas Wong, founder of Life-Friendly Business.

REVIEW: Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Lighthouse Poole

The next few days should be a breeze for me after a double infusion of cultural joy and happiness on successive evenings at Lighthouse Poole.

Four donkeys put down at motor museum after 'terminal illnesses'

Four donkeys at a motor museum in New Milton were put down last week after it concluded it was “the kindest course of action” for the animals.

'Traditional' pub with thatched roof dating back to 1660 named among UK's cosiest

The Castle Inn in West Lulworth is one of Dorset's oldest pubs and has been named among the UK's cosiest.

Local music acts urged to apply to open Dorset music festival this May

Emerging Dorset musicians can apply to open Cursus Festival 2026 near Blandford, in memory of Mick Bailey. Entries close 23 March. Local acts only.

Unexpected discovery of Ancient Egyptian artefacts at Dorset country park

Egyptian artefacts from Pharaoh Khafre’s Old Kingdom temple, dating to 2450 BC, discovered at Durlston Country Park. Public talk and display in March.

Reimagined tribute celebrating Paul Simon 'classic' coming to Dorset venue

The London African Gospel Choir brings Graceland Reimagined to Poole’s Lighthouse on 26 September, marking 40 years of Paul Simon’s iconic album.

Dorset Council responds to flood-damaged roads with major repairs underway

Dorset Council invests £5m for flood-damaged road repairs after record rainfall, surge in potholes and emergencies. Major works target worst-hit routes in 2026.

Dorset care home residents share in community help for families in need

Avon Cliff care home residents and staff support Bournemouth Foodbank, delivering packed lunches to local families amid rising demand for food aid.

Dorset man who lost father to prostate cancer urges others to 'be proactive'

Graham Heron from Dorset urges UK men to get PSA tests for early prostate cancer detection, credits Dorchester Hospital and DCCF for vital support.

'A place to recharge': Family creates hidden woodland sauna retreat in Poole

A family-run sauna set within the woodland surroundings of Upton Country Park has become a place where visitors leave feeling “renewed and relaxed”.

Renowned journalist to host first event in series by Dorset hospice charity

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care launches Sunflower Series in Dorset with BBC’s Kate Adie at Merley House, Wimborne. Event supports hospice patient services.

New trauma-informed service for domestic abuse survivors for Dorset

Victim Support to launch new Dorset domestic abuse service in July 2026, offering trauma-informed care and confidential help for high-risk victims.

Woman fined £600 after rushing to collapsed mother

A woman has been fined £600 after rushing to mother's home after she collapsed.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care's Muddy Dog Dash returns to Dorset country park

Join Lewis-Manning's Muddy Dog Dash at Upton Country Park, Poole, on 28 March 2026. Fun dog-friendly obstacle course, fundraising for Dorset hospice care.

Martin Lewis on the little-known HMRC rule that lets families pass on £1m tax-free

Families could pass on up to £1 million without paying inheritance tax, according to a new beginner’s guide from money expert Martin Lewis.

Stamp prices to hit £1.80 next month despite Royal Mail missed targets

Royal Mail have announced that the price of a second-class stamp will go up by 4p to 91p and first-class stamps will increase by 10p to £1.80

Can you solve one of the toughest GCSE questions ever set?

The question has sparked intense debate on Reddit, where users admitted they were completely stumped, even years after leaving school

Broadband bills rising in days - 6 quick checks that could stop you paying £48 more

Millions of households face broadband bill rises this spring. Experts reveal six quick ways to avoid the price hikes and cut what you pay.

Formula 1

Watch thrilling Australian GP start as Leclerc seizes the lead

As lights went out for the first time in 2026, polesitter George Russell lost out to the flying Ferrari of Charles Leclerc to kick off a thrilling opening lap of the Australian Grand Prix.

Piastri crashes out before Australian GP gets under way

Huge drama unfolded during the build-up to the Australian Grand Prix as Oscar Piastri crashed on his way to the grid – ending his home race before it had even started.

10 trailblazing women of F1 past and present

On International Women’s Day, F1.com celebrates some of the trailblazing women who have made their mark across Formula 1’s past, present and future.

OFFICIAL GRID: Who starts where in Australia

The full official starting order for Sunday's 2026 Australian Grand Prix in the Melbourne.

LIVE COVERAGE: Russell leads Antonelli and Leclerc in Australia

Live coverage of Sunday's Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix 2026 in Melbourne.

Australian Grand Prix final predictions and odds

Our expert betting writers make their last-minute predictions before lights out in Melbourne.

Australian Grand Prix short-form betting tips

Our expert betting writers provide their tips for the major Australian Grand Prix betting markets.

All the key moments from the 2026 Australian GP

As F1's new era got underway in Australia, Mercedes kicked off their season in the perfect manner with a 1-2 result.

Bortoleto ‘extremely happy’ with points on Audi’s debut

Gabriel Bortoleto has admitted his excitement at having the opportunity to score points in Audi’s first race as a works team, with the Brazilian driver crossing the line in P9 in Australia.

Lindblad overjoyed by ‘pretty nuts’ P8 finish on debut

Arvid Lindblad has reflected on the “pinch me moments” that made up his debut for Racing Bulls in Australia, as he got stuck in from lights out, battling some of his racing idols on a journey to scoring his first points of the year.

What the teams said – Race day in Australia

The drivers and teams report back on all the action from Sunday's race in Melbourne for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix.

McLaren ‘need to improve the car quite a lot’ – Norris

Lando Norris has suggested that McLaren “need to improve the car quite a lot” following his P5 finish in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, with the Briton admitting that he was “struggling with a lot of things” during the race.

Verstappen clarifies if he's concerned by deficit to Mercedes

Max Verstappen has admitted that worrying about the competitive gap to Mercedes is “not going to change anything” after he charged to P6 from a P20 start in the Australian Grand Prix.

Hamilton buoyed by ‘really fun’ Australian GP

Lewis Hamilton has been left excited for what is to come after enjoying a “really fun” Australian Grand Prix, with the seven-time World Champion admitting that he wished the race could have gone on longer – particularly after only just missing out on P3 to Ferrari team mate Charles Leclerc.

Leclerc pleased Ferrari ‘delivered’ in Australia start

Charles Leclerc was encouraged that Ferrari “delivered” by enjoying a strong start at the Australian Grand Prix, with the Monegasque also pleased that the squad performed better on race day than in Qualifying – while also suggesting that his P3 result was the “best we could do”.

‘It was the best start we could have wished for’ – Antonelli

Kimi Antonelli enthused that Mercedes achieved “the best start we could have wished for” at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, rounding out a rollercoaster weekend with a hard-fought P2 behind winner George Russell.

Verstappen's comeback drive gets your vote for Australia

Windows Central

3 remarkable PC concepts and pioneers that still influence today's hardware — including Lenovo's wacky new Legion Go Fold gaming handheld

Lenovo's unique new Legion Go Fold concept gaming handheld, revealed earlier this week, led me down a rabbit hole of concepts and pioneers in the PC and PC gaming space that directly influenced the device.

Someone rebuilt Task Scheduler for Windows 11 and it goes way harder than it has any right to

FluentTaskScheduler is a free, open-source wrapper that brings a modern interface for the built-in Task Scheduler on Windows 11. It's not perfect, but it's promising.

Early benchmarks say it: Qualcomm's Snapdragon Extreme chip is cooking Intel’s top-tier Panther Lake

Early Geekbench benchmarks suggest Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme could outperform Intel’s Core Ultra X9 388H from the Panther Lake lineup. The results highlight ARM’s growing role in Windows laptops.

No Windows 12 in 2026, so here’s the wishlist Microsoft should steal

Microsoft may not be releasing Windows 12 this year, as its roadmap is focused on improving user sentiment around Windows 11. Still, my wishlist for Windows 12 is already in the wild.

Microsoft delays the “New Outlook takeover” again — admins get one more year to panic in peace

Microsoft has delayed the opt-out phase of its new Outlook for Windows rollout until March 2027, giving enterprise administrators another year to prepare for the transition away from classic Outlook.

My gaming PC has suffered enough — I'm locking down updates until NVIDIA's drivers and Microsoft's Windows releases gain back my trust

The combination of NVIDIA's faulty drivers and Microsoft's buggy Windows releases for my gaming PC is driving me nuts, and trust has eroded to the point that I'm stopping automatic updates. Are you with me?

This week in Windows: Surface strategy wavers, OEMs push back, and Apple’s $599 MacBook Neo circles the market

Microsoft's rising Surface prices have created a vacuum in the $600 laptop market. Can Windows OEMs pivot before the MacBook Neo dominates the segment?

My top 5 Decky Loader plugins every SteamOS and Bazzite handheld gaming PC should use

Decky Loader unlocks powerful plugins for Steam Deck and Bazzite handhelds. This guide highlights the five best plugins that improve performance, usability, and library organization.

Laffgaff

What is the second element in the periodic table?

Helium.

Keyboard Practice

Three days ago, my son went upstairs to practice his keyboard. I haven't seen him synth.