Rare planetary parade caught on camera by our expert stargazers

This week in the UK, three astronomers have captured video diaries for the BBC showcasing a celestial display of seven planets. The planets in question are Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn, all visible in the night sky. Unfortunately, Friday marks the final day to witness this incredible event, known as a ‘planetary… Continue reading Rare planetary parade caught on camera by our expert stargazers

Police given 'stop and search' power ahead of Edinburgh derby

Police Scotland has been granted special authority to conduct stop and search operations on fans ahead of the upcoming Edinburgh derby to prevent football-related disturbances. Ahead of the clash between Hibs and Hearts at Easter Road, authorities may request fans to remove items of clothing that could potentially mask their identity. Chief Superintendent David Robertson… Continue reading Police given 'stop and search' power ahead of Edinburgh derby

First British tourists allowed back into North Korea tell BBC what they saw

Jean Mackenzie, as the Seoul correspondent, highlighted the strict rules set in place for Western tourists embarking on a journey to North Korea, an enigmatic and oppressive nation. The atmosphere is fraught with caution as visitors must refrain from insulting the leaders, ideology, or making judgments. Tour guides emphasize the importance of understanding and listening… Continue reading First British tourists allowed back into North Korea tell BBC what they saw

Mountain rescue: volunteers dealing with 'unprecedented' demand

North Wales is facing a surge in mountain rescue callouts, leading to volunteer crews being pushed to their limits. The unprecedented demand for rescue services has resulted in increased strain on teams, with two tragic deaths in just 10 days. The influx of outdoor enthusiasts in the region, influenced by social media platforms like TikTok… Continue reading Mountain rescue: volunteers dealing with 'unprecedented' demand

Flat owner hit with £65,000 fire safety bill as block too short for funding

As flat owners express concerns about the financial burden for fire safety renovations, it is evident that those residing in buildings under 11m in height are not eligible for government support as part of the Building Safety Act introduced after the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. This exclusion leaves many leaseholders facing overwhelming bills… Continue reading Flat owner hit with £65,000 fire safety bill as block too short for funding

Gatwick: Why is it so hard to move a runway 12 metres?

Three journalists, Tom Espiner, Faarea Masud, and Sean Dilley, reported on the latest developments at Gatwick Airport for BBC Business. The potential expansion at Gatwick is now closer to reality as the government has given its preliminary approval. This move is a significant step forward for the airport’s plans, which aim to enhance its facilities.… Continue reading Gatwick: Why is it so hard to move a runway 12 metres?

Starmer speaks to Trump and Zelensky following White House row

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer recently engaged in discussions with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following a meeting that turned contentious in Washington. The meeting sparked a disagreement about US assistance for Ukraine, prompting Sir Keir to reaffirm his “unwavering support for Ukraine” in conversations with both leaders according to a… Continue reading Starmer speaks to Trump and Zelensky following White House row

Brit Awards: Five things to look out for at tonight's ceremony

As the Brit Awards prepare for their 45th edition, US star Sabrina Carpenter is set to receive the global success award during the ceremony. The event promises to be a night overflowing with British music talent, with Charli XCX leading the nominations this year. With five nominations – including artist of the year and album… Continue reading Brit Awards: Five things to look out for at tonight's ceremony

Can the tide turn on the English Channel migrant boat crossings?

A high-profile visit from British home secretary Yvette Cooper to France’s northern coast has sparked discussions around the recent decrease in successful migrant crossings. Cooper, accompanied by French interior minister Bruno Retailleau, witnessed the joint efforts to tackle people smuggling gangs. The collaborative approach was seen as a positive step forward in addressing the ongoing… Continue reading Can the tide turn on the English Channel migrant boat crossings?

Newspaper headlines: 'The Fight House' and 'Meltdown in Oval Office'

In a tumultuous meeting in the Oval Office, the Sun reports that tension ran high between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Described as a scene from “The Fight House,” Trump was allegedly adamant in his insistence on a quick resolution to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, leaving Zelensky feeling ambushed and at… Continue reading Newspaper headlines: 'The Fight House' and 'Meltdown in Oval Office'