BBC News
Officials deliberately withheld Mandelson vetting result from me, Starmer says
The PM tells the Commons that if he had known the peer failed security vetting he would not have been appointed.
Sacked civil servant to speak out in Mandelson vetting row
Sir Olly Robbins is expected to defend his decision not to tell Sir Keir Starmer that Lord Mandelson failed vetting.
If Plaid win in Wales, that won't mean independence - at least not yet
In the Senedd campaign, are weighing up whether the issue of Welsh independence is a vote winner or loser.
Petrol thefts surge as Iran war pushes up fuel costs
One petrol retailer says he is experiencing about five drive-offs a week at each forecourt, costing him thousands.
Government to propose electricity price changes in clean power push
The war in the Middle East has brought renewed attention to Britain's vulnerability to energy price shocks.
King honours his 'darling Mama', the late Queen, on her centenary
The final design for a statue of the late Queen Elizabeth is to be unveiled, 100 years after her birth.
Apple names new chief executive to replace Tim Cook
John Ternus will take over running the technology giant as Cook steps up to become executive chairman.
US singer D4vd pleads not guilty to murder in death of missing teen girl
Prosecutors say the singer, real name David Anthony Burke, could face life in prison due to the nature of the case, if convicted.
Canadian killed in shooting at Mexico's ancient Teotihuacán pyramids
Several people were also injured in the incident on Monday at the popular tourist site, say Mexican officials, weeks before the country hosts the Fifa World Cup.
Phones to be banned in schools by law in England under government plans
Education minister Jacqui Smith said the move would create "a clear legal requirement for schools".
The 20-somethings juggling three jobs to make ends meet
While UK unemployment is at a five-year-high, increasing numbers of those in work have more than one job.
James Bond and prog rock to feature in 2026 Proms
Concerts celebrating Benjamin Britten, Steve Reich and Miles Davis also appear in the programme.
Key points from Starmer's Mandelson statement
The prime minister has been back in the Commons after it emerged the Labour peer failed vetting.
The Papers: 'Starmer on collision course' and 'I didn't know I was fibbing'
All of today's papers respond to Starmer's claims he didn't know of Lord Mandelson's failed vetting for the role of British ambassador to the US.
Are insider traders making millions from Trump's announcements?
The BBC has found significant spikes in activity shortly before the US president made some announcements.
What we know about the Iranian ship seized by the US
The US has intercepted an Iranian ship entering the Gulf as part of its naval blockade, US President Donald Trump has said.
Can Iran and the US find middle ground to make a deal?
The BBC's chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet is reporting from Tehran on condition that none of her material is used on the BBC's Persian Service. These restrictions apply to all international media organisations operating in Iran.
US releases video of forces seizing Iranian ship
The US has intercepted an Iranian-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf as part of its naval blockade, Donald Trump has said.
Oil prices rise after Trump says Iranian ship seized
Energy markets have seen wild swings since the US and Israel attacked Iran on 28 February.
Why and how is US blockading Iranian ports in Strait of Hormuz?
Donald Trump says that the US is blockading the Strait of Hormuz. What does this mean in practice?
'Huge relief' as students given loans 'in error' get repayment reprieve
Approximately 22,000 weekend students had been told their courses were never eligible for student finance.
Attempted murder charge after car hit pedestrians
A 30-year-old woman is in a critical condition following the incident on Sunday morning in Soho.
Blue Origin rocket grounded after satellite 'mishap'
The firm founded by Amazon billionaire Jeff Bezos is investigating the failed launch.
FBI Director Kash Patel files $250m lawsuit against The Atlantic
Patel alleges that the magazine published false and harmful claims about his conduct, including accusations of excessive drinking and unexplained absences from duty.
Four arrests made during Epsom rape protest
Police say there is no evidence immigrants or asylum seekers were involved in the alleged rape.
Days of Our Lives and Starship Troopers actor Patrick Muldoon dies aged 57
The actor and producer also appeared in Melrose Place and Saved By the Bell.
Trump tariff refunds begin but consumers likely to miss out
Businesses can apply online through a portal for refunds expected to total $160bn.
Henry Zeffman: Robbins's revelations are a dangerous moment for Starmer
Drawing a line under Lord Mandelson's appointment is proving impossible for the prime minister.
Boy, 17, pleads guilty to synagogue arson attack
Accelerant was thrown through the window of Kenton United Synagogue on Saturday night.
Smoking ban for people born after 2008 in the UK agreed
The "landmark" legislation aims to stop anyone born after 1 January 2009 from taking up smoking to create a smoke-free generation.
Court challenge over Met Police's use of live facial recognition lost
The claim was brought over concerns the technology can be used in an arbitrary or discriminatory way.
Migrant first to be convicted under new crossing law
Tajik Mohammad pleaded guilty to piloting an overcrowded dinghy across the Channel in bad weather.
Israeli soldiers punished over vandalism of Jesus statue in Lebanon
Two soldiers will be removed from combat duty and receive 30 days of military detention, Israel's military says.
No 10 considered giving Starmer aide diplomat job, sacked official says
Sir Olly Robbins says he felt "uncomfortable" after No 10 discussed finding a role for Lord Doyle.
Man admits rape and religiously aggravated abuse of Sikh woman
John Ashby, 32, initially denies the attack but changes his plea one day after the trial begins.
Michael Jackson film is a 'whitewash' and 'ghoulish', critics say
A new biopic, titled Michael, sees the singer's nephew Jaafar Jackson portray his uncle's rise to fame.
Iran sees mass redundancies from war with US and Israel
The impact is being felt by manufacturers, retailers and the digital sector, amid warnings it could get worse if the war resumes.
After the departure of Tim Cook, how will Apple change under 'product guy' John Ternus?
How Ternus responds to challenges facing Apple will go a long way to deciding the tech giant's future, writes Zoe Kleinman.
Key evidence from sacked official at heart of Mandelson vetting row
Sir Olly Robbins has defended his actions amid a row over the vetting of the former US ambassador.
Carey Mulligan on the Gen Z v millennial feud at the heart of Netflix's Beef
Mulligan and Oscar Isaac play a couple who get into a dramatic row with a pair of younger employees.
Popemobile child clinic yet to reach Gaza one year after Francis's death
One of the late pope's last wishes was for his vehicle to be used for children in Gaza, but a charity is still waiting for an entry permit.
Air fares soar by nearly 25% as Iran war forces flights to re-route
Airspace restrictions caused by the conflict sent plane ticket prices higher, research shows.
Teacher 'had dark thoughts about abused baby'
Jamie Varley is accused of the murder of 13-month-old Preston Davey, who he adopted.
Unemployment rate unexpectedly falls as fewer students look for work
The drop has been largely driven by a rise in the number of people not actively seeking work.
William and Catherine praise late Queen's 'lifetime of duty'
On what would have been her 100th birthday, the final design for a statue honouring the late Queen Elizabeth II is unveiled.
Mass trial for 486 alleged MS-13 gang members begins in El Salvador
The group are collectively accused of committing more than 47,000 crimes, including murder.
Woman in court after car hits pedestrians in Soho
Gabrielle Carrington is accused of causing grievous bodily harm to two people who were hit by a car.
Bournemouth Echo
Age-old tradition of New Forest ponies causing traffic jams on roads
In the New Forest the real lords of the road are four-legged, have a swishing tail and don’t care about your morning commute.
Parents concerned over closure of 'essential' childcare hub
PARENTS raise concerns as “trusted community hub” Beaufort centre set to close this month.
Dorset brewery wins multiple awards at South West regional beer awards
A brewery has made an award-winning debut on the regional beer scene.
Sports and social club pay tribute to 'two of the kindest souls'
Bournemouth Electric Club has paid tribute to two of it's 'most dedicated' members who have been described as the 'kindest souls'.
'Major' thatched roof fire believed to have been caused by woodburning stove
AROUND 45 firefighters were called to tackle a major thatched roof fire believed to have been caused by heat transfer from a woodburning stove.
Man hospitalised with 'serious injuries' after collision in Hamworthy
A man has been hospitalised with serious injuries following a collision with a car in Hamworthy.
RECAP: Road in Hamworthy blocked due to accident
A road in Hamworthy is currently blocked following an accident- emergency services are at the scene.
Busy road blocked after car bursts into flames
A busy road is blocked due to a car fire as police and fire services are in attendance.
Amber wildfire alert issued by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service
Amber wildfire alert issued by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service amid dry weather. Public urged to avoid barbecues, campfires and take extra care.
Popular outdoor brand unveils plans to open in old Poundland
A popular outdoor brand has unveiled plans to open in a former discount store.
PCC David Sidwick: 'Anti-social behaviour and violent crime have fallen'
Dorset Police report falling crime and anti-social behaviour in Dorset, with increased visible policing, patrols, and Safer Streets funding boosting safety.
Can town council decisions be reversed? your questions answered
New town councils were controversially established last year – but is there a way of reversing the decisions?
Bournemouth hotel's secondary licence plans heard by committee
A hotel in Bournemouth has had plans for a secondary licence heard by a committee after residents raised concerns about anti-social behaviour.
Teachers at multiple schools set to strike over job cuts
Teachers at multiple schools under a controversial multi-academy trust (MAT) are set to take three-days of industrial action beginning next week over proposals job cuts and restructuring.
“We’re losing Bournemouth’s much-loved community spaces. No more"
Labour plans to save community spaces, tackle antisocial behaviour and stand up for the area if elected to town councils in Bournemouth, Broadstone & Poole.
“We believe Poole’s identity should be strengthened, not diluted"
Poole People group has said it will protect the town’s heritage, support communities, and listen to residents if elected to the new Poole Town Council.
WATCH: Motorist captures footage of horses on A338
Multiple horses have been spotted travelling along the A338, causing disruption to motorists.
Animal Welfare Party sets out manifesto for town council elections
Animal Welfare Party is standing candidates for election town councils in Bournemouth and Poole to put sustainability and compassion at the centre of decision-making.
LIVE: Horses seen 'cantering' towards Bournemouth on A338
Horses have been spotted travelling towards Bournemouth and causing delays on the A338- updates to follow.
Man dumped bodies of 50 hares outside shop in 'horror movie scene,' court told
A man dumped the bodies of 50 hares outside a village shop before smearing the blood of one across the store front and stuffing a dead kestrel and a barn owl under the door handles in a "horror movie scene", a court has heard.
Reinspection carried out after 'major' thatched roof fire
A reinspection has taken place following a major thatched roof fire in Sturminster Newton.
£1 car boot sale to take place this weekend
Buyers and sellers can attend a popular car boot sale for just £1 this weekend.
Moped damaged by teenagers 'sitting on it and kicking it' in Poole
A group of teenagers were reported acting “suspiciously” and damaging a moped by “sitting on it and kicking it" in Poole.
Key wildlife species including birds feared to have been caught up in wildfire
Reptiles and ground nesting birds are feared to have been caught up in a fire that tore through part of the New Forest
REVIEW- Rick Astley lights up sold-out Bournemouth venue
The man with the big, big voice bought a big, big show to the sold-out BIC tonight.
Runaway rabbit reunited with owner after officer's quick action
A bunny on the run has been safely reunited with its owner thanks to the quick action of a police community support officer
Special event set to honour 'forgotten army' that helped win the war
Families of women who played a vital role in the New Forest during the Second World War are being urged to come forward
Thousands more young people to be offered meningitis vaccines and antibiotics
6,500 more young people across Weymouth and Portland are to be offered vaccinations and antibiotics for Meningitis B after three confirmed cases in the area.
Two Dorset towns named among most expensive places for single people in the UK
Living alone in the UK now costs single adults an average of £6,430 more a year, with London, Poole and Bournemouth facing the highest 'singles tax'.
Major children’s hospice changes name and brand following research
Naomi and Jack’s, formerly Naomi House & Jacksplace, rebrands to clarify its children’s hospice services, offering wider palliative and respite care support.
Dorset Police announces measures to better support victims of stalking
Dorset Police backs national action plan after Suzy Lamplugh Trust super complaint to improve stalking victim support and to tackle offenders.
Internationally acclaimed music collective coming to Bournemouth venue this May
Postmodern Jukebox bring their The Future Is Vintage UK tour to Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre in May 2026, transforming chart hits with jazz and swing flair.
Agatha Christie classic to be staged at Dorset venue next month
Agatha Christie's ‘And Then There Were None’ comes to Wimborne's Tivoli Theatre, 14–16 May. Tickets via box office or tivoliwimborne.co.uk. Book now!
NHS detects tens of thousands of bowel cancers thanks to screening programme
NHS bowel cancer screening has detected 70,000 cases in 20 years. Over 6.9 million in the UK took part in 2024/25. Early testing saves lives—get your home test.
Emoji’s have feelings too, new university study reveals
Bournemouth University study finds brains process emojis like real faces, with scans showing similar neural responses to digital icons and human expressions.
Care group rebrands after 26 years of award-winning care in Bournemouth & Poole
Kanesbury Care, formerly LuxuryCare, rebrands its Bournemouth and Poole care homes, highlighting family values and lifestyle-led care across six locations.
"Day of outdoor adventure" planned at Larmer Tree Gardens next month
Enjoy "Branch Out!" at Larmer Tree Gardens, Dorset, on 9-10 May. Family-friendly outdoor activities, tree climbing, live music & more. Tickets via Eventbrite.
UK's largest beachfront sauna to open in Boscombe
The largest beachfront sauna in the UK is set to open in Boscombe, with bookings now available.
Free children’s activities and poetry marquee headline writing festival return
Bournemouth Writing Festival returns 24–26 April with 100+ events, free workshops, poetry, children’s activities and author talks across town centre venues.
Re-elected Bournemouth Chamber president sets out vision
Nigel Hedges unveils new vision for Bournemouth Chamber of Trade, launching a digital growth group and expanding business support amid economic challenges.
UK farmers prepare for huge annual event expected to attract millions
Celebrate 20 years of Open Farm Sunday on 7 June 2026. UK farms welcome visitors to explore agriculture, meet farmers, and learn about British farming.
Care home creatives in Dorset embrace World Art Day
Care home residents at Colten Care in Dorset and Hampshire celebrated World Art Day with creative art sessions, showcasing their talents and boosting wellbeing.
Thousands back petition to stop New Forest split
A new campaign group has been set up to prevent the split of the New Forest in local government plans.
Managing partner at legal firm completes 50-mile trek for cardiac charity
Paris Smith managing partner Huw Miles completed a 50-mile charity walk from Winchester to Bournemouth, raising £2,440 for Heartbeat’s 3D heart project.
Over-65s invited to connect and enjoy free monthly lunches in Bournemouth
Older residents in Bournemouth can enjoy free monthly lunches and social events at Winton Park Café, thanks to McCarthy & Stone Foundation’s Welcome Wednesday.
Hot tub specialist from Dorset scoops two national awards
Dorset’s Hyperion Hot Tubs wins two national awards at the Sundance Spas UK Dealer Conference, recognised for swim spas and 880 Series sales excellence.
Bournemouth pub to host science festival event next month
Pint of Science festival at Camden Westbourne pub, 18–20 May, features talks on mushrooms, foraging and more, bringing UK scientists to the public.
Poole 'mystery man' wins £10,000 a month for a year on National Lottery
A man from Poole has won £10,000 every month for a year after scooping a prize in a National Lottery set for life draw.
Adults-only soft play event from charity to come to Christchurch next month
Adults-only soft play event at The Treehouse, Christchurch on 22 May. Hosted by charity Diverse Abilities, BYOB. Tickets and details at diverseabilities.org.uk.
Man banned from entering Poole for two years after assaulting women - In the Dock
The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:
First cohort of part-time trainee teachers in Dorset about to graduate
Castleman Learning Network in Poole offers a part-time primary PGCE route with QTS, helping Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset career-changers become teachers.
Senior law firm partner recognised for national leadership with award
Grant Cameron of Trethowans wins Legal Personality of the Year at LexisNexis Legal Awards 2026.
Formula 1
Wolff on how to 'best handle' Mercedes intra-team battle
Toto Wolff explains how Mercedes will approach their intra-team battle in 2026 with both Kimi Antonelli and George Russell battling for wins.
12 women who’ve raced and tested F1 cars
Doriane Pin added her name to the Formula 1 history books last Friday, completing her maiden test at Silverstone, becoming the first woman to drive a Mercedes F1 car – and the first F1 ACADEMY champion to do so.
The state of play at Williams
The 2026 season has not gone to plan for Williams – yet. But can the squad turn things around and get back into the midfield fight?
Inside Ferrari's fast starts and their impact on betting
Mercedes have won the first three races of the F1 season, but it's Ferrari who have caught the eye of betting fans.
Norris wins Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award
Lando Norris has added another trophy to his growing cabinet after winning the World Breakthrough of the Year prize at the prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards – the 2026 edition being held in Madrid on Monday night.
Racing Bulls outline ‘strange’ upgrade plan for next two races
Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane has explained the team's upgrade plans amid the April break in racing.
Windows Central
Buy the first Kingdom Come: Deliverance RPG on Steam right now, and you can help save its most iconic castle IRL — it's crazy cheap for Steam Medieval Fest
During the Steam Medieval Fest, buying Kingdom Come: Deliverance will contribute $1 towards the preservation of its iconic Pirkštejn Castle in real life.
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally is inexplicably getting cheaper while it's competitors hike prices — making it the best Steam Deck competitor right now
The Xbox Ally is currently one of the most affordable ways to play Xbox PC games on the go, with an above-average display and additional gameplay-enhancing features, all for 20% off.
Xbox's Starfield just topped US game sales for the first time since launch after its PS5 release — is Bethesda's RPG selling well on PlayStation after all?
Starfield was the best-selling game in the US during the same week that the Xbox RPG came to PS5 and got some sizable content updates from Bethesda.
It's time for Xbox to stop apologizing for its existence
If there's one thing I think Xbox should change under new CEO Asha Sharma — it's in how Xbox presents itself to the public. Xbox needs to stop hiding.
"it’s an understatement to say it’s an amazing value for the money": How is it that this Hall Effect Xbox controller with 1000Hz Polling on PC is this cheap?
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox is a relatively new gamepad armed with Hall Effect Sensors, 1000Hz polling on PC, and a generous price considering the premium-level tech it features, and it's on sale for 37% off.
“Why can ThinkPads do this but Surface can’t?” — A perfect repair score exposes Microsoft’s hardware gap
Lenovo’s ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 earned a perfect 10/10 repairability score from iFixit, exposing how far Microsoft’s Surface Laptop lineup still trails behind.
Microsoft and Xbox just announced a new games showcase coming this week — here's when it is, what to expect, and how to watch
The ID@Xbox and IGN April 2026 Showcase has been announced, and will bring Xbox and PC gamers a closer look at new indie games on the way later this week.
“How is this not getting more attention?” — Wolverine V3 Pro might be the most advanced Xbox/PC controller ever at this price
The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and its wired-only Tournament Edition are having a 25% discount to help Xbox and PC players achieve smoother gameplay inputs and comfort for cheaper prices.
“This update broke BitLocker for me” — Windows 11’s April patch is locking out PCs, but here’s the fix that works
Some Windows 11 PCs hit BitLocker recovery after the April 2026 update. Here's what's causing it and how to fix this problem before or after installing the system update.
Surface fans are now 3D‑printing the hardware Microsoft won’t build
A Surface fan designed a 3D‑printed dock that improves lapability and pairs the Surface Pro with Lenovo’s TrackPoint keyboard.
"An excellent controller and a great value": I wish more Hall-Effect Xbox controllers had this price tag — another GameSir winner
A 10% discount has been spotted for the GameSir Kaleid, making this budget-friendly Xbox controller with Hall Effect sticks/joysticks, RGB lighting, and tight ergonomics more valuable than ever.
"Blows every past Surface Pro away and competes with the best Windows laptops": Our favorite Snapdragon X Elite PC says 'No' to rising prices
Microsoft's Surface Pro 11 is our go-to laptop for everyday tasks, creative artistry, and casual browsing, and its Snapdragon X Elite CPU and 13" OLED screen configuration is now 36% cheaper to help folks skip out on the recently announced price hikes.
“It may feel different at first”: Microsoft Teams will stop you from leaving meetings or raising your hand accidentally
Microsoft is moving the Raise Hand and Leave buttons in Teams meetings to reduce accidental clicks. The update, scheduled for June 2026, also adds a customizable meeting toolbar with pin, unpin, and reorder options.
“Coming soon”: It looks like you'll finally be able to spend Microsoft Rewards directly on your Xbox console
Microsoft is expanding its Rewards program with a new feature that will allow Xbox users to spend points directly on console.
"Protect and elevate the Xbox brand": Microsoft hires for major new comms role, pointing to a potential shift in PR strategy
Xbox is hiring a senior brand and reputation lead, suggesting a renewed focus on messaging, consistency, and how the platform presents itself across media, partners, and its community.
Windows Central Podcast: What's next for Surface? We break down the leaks
Podcast: Daniel and Zac discuss the leaks around Microsoft's upcoming wave of Surface hardware.
OpenAI’s new feature is just like Windows Recall: Chronicle makes its Codex smarter by remembering your screen — Microsoft tried that, and it blew up in controversy
OpenAI’s Codex gets a memory upgrade, improving developer workflows by boosting effectiveness and efficiency.
"Project Helix will be available as a 1st party Xbox console": Microsoft pushes back on swirling third-party hardware rumors
While OEM devices are not ruled out, the company remains committed to building and selling its own hardware, offering clearer direction amid ongoing speculation.
Parents Decide Act pushes Windows 11 and others towards forced age verification, collecting "any information as is necessary"
A proposed US law could force operating systems to verify your age and share it with apps, sparking a heated debate over privacy and safety.
Xbox Game Pass price gets a MASSIVE price cut — Here's the details and the fate of Call of Duty for 2026
After last year's wildly unpopular 50% price hike, Microsoft has reverted a ton of it. Fortnite Crew, Ubisoft Classics will remain, previous Call of Duty games will too, but this year's will be a retail-only affair. What's going on?
Laffgaff
How many federal states does Germany have?
16.
Origami Exam
I didn't think I'd fail my origami exam. But that's just how things unfolded.