New Year's Eve: UK sees in 2021 with fireworks and light show

The display over London included tributes to NHS staff and figures including Captain Sir Tom Moore.
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Activists cheer as 'sexist' tampon tax is scrapped

Campaigners say cutting of the 5% VAT rate on tampons and sanitary towels ends a 'sexist' tax.
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Adobe Flash Player is finally laid to rest

The beleaguered web browser plug-in will no longer receive security updates from Adobe.
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'Worst year for High Street job losses in 25 years'

Nearly 180,000 retail jobs were last year, up by almost a quarter on the previous year, analysts say.
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Moscow train carriage helps rehome stray pets

The Tails and Paws train features posters of dozens of animals in need of a new home.
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US politics in 2021: What's in store for President-elect Biden?

A new president with an agenda that's already set - and an outgoing president who's not leaving quietly.
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Why 2021 will be turning point for tackling climate change

Next year could be a "make or break" moment in the fight against global warming.
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Brexit: 'We welcomed the trade deal like a Christmas present'

Europeans in the UK, and British people around Europe, explain what Brexit will mean for them.
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Entertainment quiz of 2020

It was a year to forget for the arts and entertainment. But let's see what you can remember.
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Was I wrong to fall for a cheating cat?

Anisa Subedar fell in love with a visiting cat. It wanted attention, so she gave it attention. Then it disappeared.
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Australia-China row: 'I'm Australian - why do I need to prove my loyalty?'

Many Chinese-Australians fear a "new McCarthyism" as Australia's values are tested by its China row.
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Brexit: New Irish Sea trade border begins operating

The trade border means most commercial goods entering NI from GB now require a customs declaration.
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MF Doom: Hip-hop star dies aged 49

A number of artists have paid tribute to the artist, real name Daniel Dumile.
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The Archers: Radio 4 to mark 70th anniversary

The station will reflect on the world's longest-running serial drama across its output on Friday.
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Covid-19: 'Short' school closures and Covid gongs

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Thursday morning.
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Tech 2020: Our biggest stories and what happened next

The most read BBC tech story of each month of the year, and how they panned out.
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Burnley takeover: ALK Capital completes deal by buying 84% controlling stake

American investment group ALK Capital completes its takeover of Burnley, buying an 84% stake in the Premier League club.
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Football in 2021 - make your predictions

As we enter 2021 it's time to predict what's going to happen. Aston Villa topping the Premier League? Scotland winning Euro 2020?
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Samuel Little: America's 'most prolific' serial killer dies

Samuel Little is thought to have killed 93 women, with his murders going undetected for decades.
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Wang Xiangjun: China's 'Glacier Bro' presumed dead

The Chinese influencer and environmentalist Wang Xiangjun was known for his love of glaciers.
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St Pauls riots: 'People were shouting revolution' in Bristol

The unrest in the St Pauls area of Bristol in 1980 was a defining moment for many black people in the city.
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Covid: New Year's Eve warning as millions are told to stay at home

More areas in England join the top restrictions tier as officials warn against holding parties.
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Scots prepare for 'different' Hogmanay

The first minister has warned: No gatherings, no house parties and no first footing as 2021 is welcomed in at home.
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Brexit: New EU trade arrangements to begin after Parliament vote

The UK's hard-fought agreement with the EU is set to come into force at 23:00 GMT on Thursday.
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Four protests that triggered change - and one that didn't

The BBC looks at a selection of history's powerful protests and why only some achieved their goals.
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Sir Keir Starmer: UK's best years lie ahead

Labour's leader uses his New Year message to say the country can "rebuild" after Covid.
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Gilligan's Island actress Dawn Wells dies of Covid complications

Dawn Wells played Mary Ann on the 1960s sitcom about seven cruise ship castaways on a desert island.
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2020 in pictures: Coronavirus in the UK

Images that defined the year a pandemic dominated the nation.
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Lookahead 2021: What's happening in the world of science?

The BBC's global science correspondent Rebecca Morelle looks at what's coming up in the next year.
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London's 'Lido ladies' inspiring others to dive in for mental health

Nicola and Jessica are encouraging women to get back in the pool to enjoy the freedom of swimming.
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Coronavirus doctor's diary: ‘Close to death from Covid, I asked them to save my baby’

A 22-year-old became seriously ill with Covid while pregnant, but ultimately both mother and baby were saved.
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Remembering the entertainment and arts figures we lost in 2020

Remembering some of the figures from music, film, TV, radio and literature who died in 2020.
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Brexit: Advice for people who can't move on

Whether it's loss or joy or family rows, we asked couples therapists how to deal with Brexit.
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Brexit: Dover-Calais route 'will work well on 1 January'

Channel Tunnel operator Getlink says there will not be congestion when new trading rules begin later.
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Tesco, Pizza Hut and Superdrug in minimum wage fail

Almost 140 companies investigated between 2016-18 failed to pay £6.7 million to over 95,000 workers.
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Drone users face new rules across Europe and UK

The regulations relax the distinctions between commercial and recreational drone use.
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Covid: France mobilises 100,000 police to stop New Year's Eve gatherings

Like other European countries, France will see muted celebrations to mark the last night of the year.
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UK house prices see highest growth in six years in 2020

UK house prices bucked the pandemic and climbed 7.5% in 2020, according to building society Nationwide.
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Bucks set NBA three-pointer record in victory over Heat

The Milwaukee Bucks set an NBA record of 29 three-pointers in a game, while Orlando Magic make it four wins from four.
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Covid-19: Second vaccine approved for use in UK and England's tiers to be reviewed

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Wednesday morning.
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Covid-19: Oxford-AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine approved for use in UK

The UK approves its second vaccine, which will lead to a massive expansion in the immunisation campaign.
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Euros, Olympics, Paralympics, Lions... the big sporting events to follow in 2021

Euro 2020, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, a Lions tour, a Rugby League World Cup in England and the Hundred are just some of the highlights of a busy sporting year.
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Covid: Essex declares major incident over virus cases

Health bosses will seek extra help from the government amid a "significant growing demand" on services.
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China Covid-19: Nearly 500,000 in Wuhan may have had virus, says study

The study by Chinese officials suggests there were more positive cases in Wuhan than official figures suggest.
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Tamir Rice killing: US closes investigation into 2014 shooting

The death of the 12-year-old boy, who had been holding a toy gun, led to widespread protests.
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Covid: Sydney announces new restrictions ahead of New Year

The Australian city is battling a worsening outbreak after months of next to no cases.
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Covid: Millions more braced for tougher rules in England

The health secretary is expected to tell MPs more areas of England will enter tier four as cases surge.
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Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads.
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UK's 1960s French 'Soviet spy' plot with Sunday Times revealed in memos

Then-prime minister Harold Wilson knew about plans between the Foreign Office and the Sunday Times.
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Impressionist Rory Bremner 'saved Sir John Major's bacon' amid MPs revolt

Newly released historical files show the comedian impersonated the then-PM in phone calls with Tory MPs.
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Striking news photos from around the world in 2020

A selection of some of the best images taken by agency photographers during the past year.
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The puppet show in a box entertaining children in hospital

Little Angel Theatre's performance is designed for young patients to enjoy from their hospital beds.
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Belarus protests: The demonstrators speaking out in new and creative ways

Faced by a government crackdown, demonstrations over the disputed August election have been forced to evolve.
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Eight things we learned about new businesses in lockdown

Eight lessons from our CEO Secrets series looking at start-ups created during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Fashion lookahead: Eight major 2021 looks from tie-dye to pastels

The patterns, prints, materials and accessories we're likely to be wearing this year.
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Iraqi interpreters 'stalked by death squads' for helping the British

Ali and Ahmed helped British forces but now they live in fear of being killed by death squads.
....read more

What my grandfather's life taught me about China and America

Vincent Ni reflects on the long life of his grandfather and a crucial choice he made as a young man.
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Quarantine meals: The 2020 food trend no-one predicted

Across the world, people in quarantine facilities were treated to some weird and wonderful combinations.
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Covid-19: Biden says Trump vaccine roll-out is 'falling behind'

The US president-elect calls for vaccinations to be ramped up as he warns of a "tough period" ahead.
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The Papers: 'New tiers eve' and PM's Brexit 'triumph'

The papers say England's toughest virus rules will be extended further, while MPs vote on the UK-EU deal.
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Japan developing wooden satellites to cut space junk

A Japanese forestry firm has partnered with Kyoto University in what would be a world first.
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Australia v India: Tourists win second Test by eight wickets

India beat Australia by eight wickets and with a day to spare in the second Test in Melbourne to level the four-match series.
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Coronavirus: India confirms six cases of new Covid variant

India suspended all UK flights last week in response to the new more transmissible variant.
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China and EU 'on verge' of major investment deal

Brussels wants to make it easier for European companies operating in a number of Chinese industries.
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Covid-19: Military to support mass testing of students in England

Members of the armed forces will help organise Covid-19 testing for thousands of students next month.
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Coronavirus: Spain to keep registry of those who refuse Covid vaccine

Vaccination will not be mandatory, officials say, and the register will not be made public.
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Nurse who nearly died from Covid returns to work

A video of Natasha Jenkins' emotional return to her children from hospital was viewed worldwide.
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Covid: US House votes to boost stimulus package payments

The chamber backs President Trump's call for $2,000 payments but the move could stall in the Senate.™
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Covid-19: Health workers 'back in eye of storm', says NHS chief

But Sir Simon Stevens says he expects all the UK's most vulnerable to be offered a vaccine by late spring.
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Parents warned of 'sharp rise' in eating disorders

Child health leaders say the increase is partly down to the pandemic's impact on young people.
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Space images: The best of 2020

There was stunning cosmic imagery to feast on over the past year - here's our pick of the offerings.
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Seeking justice for Lion Sleeps Tonight composer

A music producer remixes an old classic to correct some injustices of the past.
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China Covid-19: How state media and censorship took on coronavirus

We look back at how China's propaganda and censorship machine responded during a particularly dramatic year.
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India migrants: The tragedy of the tuk-tuk driver who fled Covid

Rajan Yadav is one of millions of migrant workers whose lives were destroyed by India's lockdown.
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Covid, furlough and Topshop collapse: 2020 in business stories

Which BBC Business stories were the most widely read in the year the coronavirus pandemic spread?
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Pregnant at 13 and able to attend school

Sierra Leone lifted its ban on pregnant girls attending school this year. Will Tanzania do the same?
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Joe Biden: 'Enormous damage' to US security agencies by Trump

The president-elect says his team is not getting the information it needs on national security.
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Newspaper headlines: 'Spring it on!' and 'don't betray our children'

The papers report details of the Covid vaccine roll out and fears schools may be closed until February.
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2020 and me: 'Be grateful for what you've got'

Vicky tells the BBC how, like many others, her world suddenly changed when London went into lockdown.
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The big tech questions for 2021

After a year that saw tech companies prosper, we look ahead to what the coming 12 months could bring.
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When Greta Thunberg met Margaret Atwood... on Zoom

The teenage climate activist and veteran author and environmentalist were brought together by Radio 4's Today Programme.
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Covid in prison: 'We should be treated like humans'

Reports suggest one-in-five prisoners have tested positive for Covid in the US, and 1,700 have died.
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Zoom: All the times virtual meetings didn't go as planned this year

From animal interruptions to catching fire, here's a look back at the year we spent (badly) online.
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Snow in Stoke-on-Trent causes problems for drivers

People in Staffordshire are urged to only drive if their journeys are essential.
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Johnny Mullagh: Australia's Cricket Hall of Fame inducts first Aboriginal player

Johnny Mullagh was one of the stars of the first Australian cricket tour of England in 1868.
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New Year's Eve: 'Why we're happy it's cancelled'

Covid restrictions mean ringing in the new year will be a quieter affair for most.
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Coronavirus: Hundreds of British skiers flee Swiss Verbier quarantine

More than 200 Britons flee Verbier, defying a Swiss order to remain in their hotels and chalets.
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Covid-19: Hospital pressure and five things to help this winter

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Monday morning.
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Dr Mahinder Watsa: India’s most famous ‘sexpert’ dies at 96

Dr Mahinder Watsa was 80 when he started his hugely popular column, answering people’s queries on sex.
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Brexit: Britons warned to prepare for 'some disruption'

Ministers warn of "practical and procedural changes" when the Brexit transition period ends this week.
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Citizen journalist jailed for Wuhan reports

Zhang Zhan, who reported on China's first coronavirus outbreak, has received a four year sentence.
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Covid-19: Hospitals face 'pressure' as coronavirus cases rise

Rising demand is down to the "rapid spread" of the new variant of Covid-19, health bosses say.
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Covid: Doctor 'has shed more tears than ever'

But intensive care consultant Bethan Gibson says the vaccine is a "light" at the end of the tunnel.
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KFC launches game console with built-in chicken warmer

The fast food chain said many people thought the built-in warmer was a spoof but is ready for production.
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Maestro Dudamel takes virtual reality Symphony on tour

Conductor Gustavo Dudamel believes music can lead the way and wants to inspire young people.
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Covid: Trump signs relief and spending package into law

The measure restores unemployment benefits and averts a partial US government shutdown.™
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Chinese games billionaire dies after poisoning

Lin Qi, 39, was the founder of Yoozoo which developed a popular Game of Thrones online game.
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Covid-19: China's painful year fighting the coronavirus

From fear to freedom, we trace China's tumultous year battling the coronavirus.
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How Covid conspiracies, 'fake news' and misinformation spread in 2020

Celebrities spread Covid conspiracies and video games were shared as ‘real’ war footage.
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2020 and me: 'I know the value of family more'

Despite the many challenges, Rula in Istanbul believes 2020 will benefit us in the future.
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'To be a black, female headteacher is phenomenal'

Evelyn Forde was crowned Headteacher of the Year, the 'Oscars' of education.
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'She is beautiful but she is Indian': The student who became a Welsh bard at 19

Dorothy Bonarjee was Indian by birth, English by upbringing, French by marriage - and Welsh at heart.
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Books 2021: A pick and mix of what's coming up

A snapshot of some of the many books for next year from established, debut and non-fiction writers.
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UK year in pictures 2020

A selection of the most compelling news photographs from around the UK.
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Covid: South Africa passes one million infections as cases surge

The grim milestone comes after a new variant of coronavirus is identified in the country.
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The Papers: 'Vacc to the future' and village hall jabs

The papers focus on how the UK's vaccination programme will work if the Oxford jab is approved.
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Teen critically injured in Stockport police vehicle crash

Officers say they were heading to a report of a domestic disturbance when the boy, 15, was struck.
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Dog invades football pitch in Bolivia

A dog paused a football game for three minutes, as it ran around with a football boot in its mouth.
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Glastonbury to gallery: 60ft Dolls drummer Carl Bevan turns to art

The crowd-surfing hedonistic punk has gone from Britpop party animal to promising painter.
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Drakeford: Wales has less influence on Johnson

Relations between the four UK nations were closer under Theresa May, Wales' first minister says.
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Covid: Cardiff health board plea for critical care help

The health board running Wales' largest hospital issues an appeal for help with Covid patients.
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UK's oldest postmistress Kay White retires after 80 years

Kay White started working at Claverley Post Office in Shropshire at the age of 14.
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Covid-19: Variant spreads, as EU states begin vaccinations

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Sunday morning.
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Irish state papers: IRA 'wanted to exclude Sinn Féin from talks'

Irish government papers from 1990 suggest some IRA bosses did not share the party's socialist views.
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Covid: EU launches mass vaccination in 'touching moment of unity'

Some member states jump the gun before Sunday's co-ordinated rollout of a coronavirus jab.
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Iran: Climbers die in blizzards and avalanche

At least 10 climbers are killed and seven others are missing in the Alborz mountains near Tehran.
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'How my art helped me quit rock 'n' roll'

Carl Bevan has switched from music to paintings and is drawing attention in the world of art.
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Brexit: PM vows to focus on 'levelling up country' after securing deal

Boris Johnson promises "big changes" after Brexit but fishermen's leaders accuse him of "caving in".
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Nashville explosion 'probably suicide bombing'

Investigators conduct DNA tests after human remains are found and a house is searched.
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Covid: Citizens Advice contacted by '12 people a minute'

The charity says 75% of people seeking advice over benefits and jobs had never contacted it before.
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Margaret Thatcher: Ex-PM described euro as a 'rush of blood to the head'

Evidence of the former UK prime minister's Euroscepticism is revealed in newly released archives.
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Hemel Hempstead brothers swap 'revolting' football shirts for Christmas

The tradition began as the brothers wanted to make Christmas more exciting than exchanging vouchers.
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How Covid-19 altered world events in 2020

The pandemic affected us all - and shaped global issues, with knock-on effects for millions.
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Coronavirus: What has Covid done for climate crisis?

Lockdowns around the world have led to record falls in CO2 emissions. But will this lead to long lasting change?
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Covid in the classroom: How the pandemic changed these three teachers' lives

Three teachers in the US reflect on how drastically their jobs have changed during 2020.
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Make-up artist: 'I was sneaking into mum's make-up bag, aged 5'

A 13-year-old girl has built up a following of thousands on social media.
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2020 and me: 'EndSARS was our Black Lives Matter'

After protests, a strike, and lockdown, Kiki, a student from Lagos, Nigeria, can’t wait for the year to be over.
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Has Thomas Becket's treasured 'little book' been found?

Thomas Becket, killed in Canterbury in 1170, was attached to a "little book", which may now have been found in Cambridge.
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Newspaper headlines: Oxford jab 'set for approval' as vulnerable identified

Most of Sunday's papers report that the Oxford Covid vaccine could be approved within days.
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Queen's Christmas message returns to top of TV ratings

A total of 8.14 million watched her address, and it was also a good day for channel-hopping Bradley Walsh.
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George Blake: Soviet Cold War spy and former MI6 officer dies in Russia

Blake was one of the Cold War's most notorious double agents and betrayed dozens of MI6 personnel.
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Mainland Scotland moves into level 4 lockdown

After a rules relaxation for Christmas Day, most of Scotland goes into the toughest level of restrictions.
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Bedfordshire flooding: Evacuation centres set up

Bedfordshire fire crews are trying to divert flood water - but say the situation is "very difficult".
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Covid: Festive charity dips cancelled due to pandemic

Organisers have pulled the plug on people taking the plunge this year due to the pandemic.
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Leicester friends feed 2,000 people Christmas dinner

Festive meals have been cooked and given to homeless and vulnerable people in the Midlands.
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'Despite Covid, why 2020 was the best year of my life'

People talk about why their 2020 was one to remember, despite everything.
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Next week crucial for Arsenal to avoid relegation battle - Arteta

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says the next seven days will be crucial for the Gunners if they are to avoid a relegation battle.
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India on top as Australia's Smith makes first Test duck since 2016

Australia's talisman Steve Smith falls for his first Test duck in over four years as India dismiss the hosts for 195 on day one of the Boxing Day Test.
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Coronavirus: Northern Ireland begins six-week lockdown

Only essential shops can remain open and must close by 20:00 every day in the first week of lockdown.
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Coronavirus: How the pandemic sparked a puppy craze

It seems buying a dog has become as popular as Zoom quizzes, but animal charities have concerns.
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Brexit: UK and EU can have 'special relationship', says Michael Gove

The cabinet secretary says he has lost friends over Brexit and admits it turned UK politics "ugly".
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Coronavirus: Millions wake to tighter Covid restrictions

More areas in England enter tier 4, as lockdowns are in place in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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Covid: Post-exposure antibody protection trialled

The first ten people are jabbed in London as part of a global trial.
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Extreme E: Lewis Hamilton helping make racing environmentally friendly

Lewis Hamilton isn't just the world's most successful F1 driver, he's also a key backer of a new off-road electric vehicle racing series called Extreme E.
....read more

Fur-st Family: The long history of US presidents and pets

From Socks the cat to Macaroni the pony, the US presidential tradition is returning with Joe Biden.
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The Masked Singer UK: The most Covid-safe show of 2020?

Host Joel Dommett chats about the second series of the Masked Singer UK - the singing celebrity guessing game.
....read more

The family with no fingerprints

A family in Bangladesh struggles with an extremely rare genetic condition, "immigration delay disease".
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The casualties of this year's viral conspiracy theories

Conspiracy theories ripped through the internet this year, destroying relationships and endangering lives.
....read more

Mark Easton's Boxing Day family puzzler 2020

This is the festive quiz in which no-one is expected to know any of the answers.
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TV in 2021: Shows coming to the small screen

Despite the impact of Covid-19 on the industry, there are still some popular shows on the way.
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Business review of 2020: Covid-19 and Trump

2020 saw countries grapple with coronavirus, balancing both public health and economic concerns.
....read more

The Papers: The Queen's pride and a new special relationship?

The Boxing Day front pages reflect on the Queen's Christmas address and the UK's post-Brexit future
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UK white Christmas declared after overnight snow

Early morning snowfall has been spotted in Leconfield in Humberside and Wattisham in Suffolk.
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Mam Tor Christmas marriage proposal photographed by chance

A marriage proposal is caught by a keen photographer who was walking in the Peak District.
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'Disappointment' for fans who 'spend Christmas' at Sandringham

About 5,000 people usually spend their Christmas morning watching the Royal Family arrive at church - but not this year.
....read more

Test your knowledge of the key events of the sporting year

Despite the coronavirus pandemic it has still been another astonishing year of sporting drama - test your knowledge in our quiz.
....read more

Covid-19: US imposes tests on UK airline passengers

The new rule will begin on 28 December amid concerns over the new variant of coronavirus.
....read more

Ivry Gitlis: Celebrated Israeli virtuoso violinist dies at 98

Described as one of the modern greats of classical music, he was a hugely charismatic figure.
....read more

Covid: Heroic response praised in religious leaders' Christmas messages

The Christmas messages reflect on the impact of the pandemic as well as people's response.
....read more

Brexit: EU diplomats to get trade deal briefing

MPs are waiting to see the full text of the agreement ahead of a vote in Parliament on 30 December.
....read more

Covid: Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica begin mass vaccination

Mexico, Chile and Costa Rica start administering the Pfizer-BioNTech jab for Covid-19.
....read more

The best of the cheesy Christmas movies

If you are looking for pure festive escapism with a guaranteed happy ending, check these films out.
....read more

'White Christmas': The biggest selling single of all time

The story of Bing Crosby and 'White Christmas'
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A scene in The Pianist changed Arson Fahim's life

As a young boy, Fahim saw a piano on screen in a refugee camp. "What I saw captivated me," he said.
....read more

Bridgerton: Everything you need to know about the Netflix drama

The period drama, which launches on Christmas Day, is based on the best-selling romance novels.
....read more

Christmas: The mail order pioneer who started a billion-pound industry

How a 19th Century draper "set up a company similar to Amazon" and created a billion pound industry.
....read more

Nick Butter: The man who ran a marathon in every country in the world

Nick Butter was 26 when inspiration came. He set out on a unique adventure but, despite two years' planning, wasn't ready for what came next.
....read more

Astronaut Scott Kelly: How to survive a year in space

Record-breaking astronaut Scott Kelly talks about living in space and his desire to go back.
....read more

Covid: Queen spends Christmas apart from family

The monarch will reflect on the hardships of the pandemic in her Christmas speech at 15:00 GMT.
....read more

Daniel Pearl: Court orders release of man accused in journalist's murder

Omar Sheikh was acquitted earlier this year of murdering the US journalist in Pakistan in 2002.
....read more

Michael Jackson: Neverland Ranch 'sold to billionaire for $22m'

Billionaire Ron Burkle reportedly buys the estate for a quarter of its initial asking price.
....read more

In pictures: Christmas celebrations around the world

This year's services and events are being attended by far fewer people because of the Covid outbreak.
....read more

Christmas cards: You won't believe the effort this family goes to!

From Game of Thrones to Elf - meet the family whose Christmas cards take months to make.
....read more

Georgia climbers who risk their lives for Christmas trees

In the Republic of Georgia, workers harvest the seeds of Nordmann firs for export to Europe.
....read more

The refugees feeding a nation

How did French Guiana come to rely on its Hmong citizens for food?
....read more

Universal Credit: 'It is embarrassing having to rely on family again'

People on Universal Credit say they worry about the end of a £20-a-week boost to the benefit.
....read more

Covid-19: South Africa travel ban and carols from the doorstep

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Thursday morning.
....read more

Airline fires pilot blamed for Taiwan's first Covid case in months

A contact of the pilot tested positive - the first local case since April.
....read more

Covid-19: UK bans travel from South Africa over variant

The rule reflects the "increased risk" from a variant linked to two cases in England, officials say.
....read more

Coronavirus: New York City orders international visitors to quarantine

Foreign travellers who break the new rules will be fined $1,000 a day, as cases surge across the US.
....read more

UK terror plots: Durham teenager asks to remain anonymous

The teenager, convicted of neo-Nazi terror offences, cannot currently be named because of his age.
....read more

Alibaba being investigated by China over monopoly tactics

The Chinese tech giant is face a probe by regulators into locking merchants into its platform.
....read more

Asian markets push higher on hopes of Brexit deal

The pound and Asian markets made gains ahead of a possible trade deal on Thursday between the UK and EU.
....read more

Benishangul-Gumuz: Attackers kill dozens in western Ethiopia

More than 100 people were killed in fires or by shooting and stabbing attacks, reports say.
....read more

Muslim-Canadian's 'first Christmas' goes viral

As a Christmas first-timer, Mohammad Hussain shared his unique perspective on the holiday on Twitter.
....read more

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks continue ahead of expected deal

Officials continue to thrash out final details, after weeks of argument over fishing and business rules.
....read more

Five families, five Christmases: A festive season like no other around Europe

Families in five countries explain how their plans have changed and how they're staying upbeat.
....read more

Flooding dampens Christmas spirit as homes and shops hit

Emergency services and councils deal with hundreds of calls for help, as rail and road is disrupted.
....read more

The celebrity hairdresser with a secret of his own

John Harding was a hairdresser to the stars - but there was a reason he rarely answered the phone.
....read more

Oscars 2021: What can we expect for the ceremony?

The film industry is hoping it will be high-profile rather than low-key after such a tough year.
....read more

Trump pardons former advisers Manafort and Stone

Paul Manafort, Roger Stone and the father of Trump's son-in-law benefit from the latest presidential pardons.
....read more

EU to allow post-Brexit UK farm produce exports

While this is a "critical step forward" seed potatoes are not included due to EU regulatory fears.
....read more

Pete Evans: Facebook removes celebrity chef's page over conspiracies

Australian celebrity chef Pete Evans has been criticised for spreading misinformation to his followers.
....read more

Covid: Santa Claus explains how to keep safe at Christmas

Father Christmas explains how to have a Covid secure Christmas
....read more

Dickens Museum: A Christmas Carol performance goes online

Charles Dickens's London home will host a special performance of A Christmas Carol.
....read more

Banjo Paterson: 120-year-old chocolate found in Australian poet's belongings

Remarkably well-preserved chocolate - found in Australia - gives a fascinating glimpse into history.
....read more

Games of 2020: The Press X To Continue awards

BBC Sounds podcast Press X To Continue chooses its best and worst of gaming in 2020.
....read more

The Papers: UK and EU on 'verge' of Brexit trade deal

Reports leaders are set to announce an agreement after months of talks is the lead story for most papers on Christmas Eve.
....read more

Covid-19: NI Executive to publish latest travel rules

New restrictions, outlining 10 days of self-isolation for travellers, will be published later.
....read more

Covid-19: Border opening, Sturgeon apology and Christmas kindness

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Wednesday morning.
....read more

Gunman kills three police officers in France

The officers had been called to a small village to investigate a domestic incident.
....read more

Trump urges Congress to amend 'wasteful' coronavirus aid bill

He asks lawmakers to "remove wasteful and unnecessary items", adding the package "really is a disgrace".
....read more

Nigella Lawson reveals why she will not be cooking turkey this Christmas

The celebrity cook says following traditions without her family will make her "feel what's missing".
....read more

Cygnet Woodside in special measures over 'patient safety risks'

Mental health hospital Cygnet Woodside is being investigated by police over allegations of abuse.
....read more

Covid-19: UK-France services return as travel ban eased

Trade and travel restrictions are partially lifted as the military helps with mass screening in Kent.
....read more

‘I was desperate for a cancer manual – but there isn’t one’

How do you cope when your young partner receives a terminal diagnosis?
....read more

Helen's Law: Killers could still be freed despite new law

The mother of Helen McCourt, who the law is named after, says it could have "gone further".
....read more

Trump pardons two convicted by Russia investigation

Ex-aide George Papadopoulos is among 15 people pardoned in the latest wave of clemency orders.
....read more

Covid: New dads share fatherhood experiences

Three men talk of becoming fathers and being unable to go to many appointments because of Covid.
....read more

Kernowite: New green mineral discovered in 220-year-old rock

The dark green mineral has been called kernowite as it was discovered from a rock mined in Cornwall.
....read more

Covid-19: 'Living with 50 people has been a blessing'

A community living in the same large house say their way of life has thrived in a year of lockdowns.
....read more

The Glasgow artist inspired by what she finds in the fridge

An amateur photographer shares her passion for creating tiny scenes with food and model figures.
....read more

Rohingya refugees' perilous journey in search of safety

More than 200 Rohingya refugees are believed to have died or gone missing at sea in 2020.
....read more

Christmas dinner: A beginner's guide to the perfect feast

If you're about to make your festive debut, Radio 1 Newsbeat's got your back.
....read more

Covid-19: 'Losing Christmas is irreparable damage'

Foppolo ski resort in the Italian Alps is shut and will miss the all-important Christmas ski season.
....read more

Widowed penguins hug in award-winning photo

The photo shows the pair appearing to comfort one another in Australia.
....read more

Covid-19: The Philippines and its lockdown baby boom

The Philippines is preparing for a surge in births which will overwhelm its already creaking systems.
....read more

Grenfell Tower inquiry: 11 key things we’ve learned this year

The inquiry's heard 400 hours of evidence this year - and our Grenfell podcast team has reported on it all.
....read more

How dependent is the UK on the EU for food?

France's ban on freight from Britain caused havoc for lorry drivers, but will it affect shoppers?
....read more

Redundancy plans fall after furlough extension

36,700 redundancies were planned in Britain in November, the lowest figure since March
....read more

Newspaper headlines: 'Tier 4 to be widened' and 'kick in the baubles'

Wednesday's papers report Whitehall sources as saying England's toughest curbs could be extended.
....read more

Paul Whelan: 'Grim life' of US prisoner in Russian labour camp

Paul Whelan was convicted as an American spy earlier this year and sentenced to 16 years in prison.
....read more

UK borrowing hits highest November level on record

The government borrowed £31.6bn last month as it continued to support the economy during the pandemic.
....read more

Covid-19: UK border latest, children's role and Biden's jab

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Tuesday morning.
....read more

Tashaun Aird: Family of murdered boy critical of school exclusion

Tashaun Aird was stabbed to death in Hackney almost two years after he was excluded from school.
....read more

Covid: The night London's theatres went dark

The lockdown hobby that became a photo-journal about London's theatre community.
....read more

Trump orders new federal buildings must be 'beautiful'

An executive order says new federal buildings should be in the Greco-Roman classical style.
....read more

Covid-19: UK and France to set out plan to restart freight

Hundreds of lorries are held up in Kent as politicians thrash out a plan to reopen the border safely.
....read more

Covid: PPE 'could be recycled' with help of sunlight

It could help tackle the problem of what to do with the pandemic's medical waste, scientists say.
....read more

The best albums and songs of 2020: Fiona Apple, Cardi B, Bob Dylan and Dua Lipa

Records by Fiona Apple, Cardi B, Bob Dylan and Dua Lipa feature in the BBC's "poll of polls".
....read more

Coronavirus: Impact of new variant on children investigated

Experts urgently assess whether the mutation of coronavirus spreads more easily among the young.
....read more

Bedford woman 'lost hands and feet' as Covid led to sepsis

Caroline Coster is determined to enjoy her "second life" despite her limbs being partially amputated.
....read more

How a young girl's fairy house sparked a magical friendship

When four-year-old Eliana created a fairy house at the start of the pandemic, she soon began finding notes and gifts from a fairy named Sapphire.
....read more

Charity single maker LadBaby aims for the Christmas number one for the third year running

LadBaby is aiming for a third successive Christmas number one, with another sausage roll infused take on a chart classic.
....read more

Will pregnant women receive the Covid-19 vaccine? It depends

Without pregnant women in trials for the jab, countries are taking different approaches.
....read more

1,000 lost on one boat - this woman hopes to name them

An Italian pathologist is trying to identify the migrants on a boat that sank in the Mediterranean in 2015.
....read more

Covid: Thanksgiving the cause of a spike in US infections?

Family reunions over the holiday period brought people together, but did they spread coronavirus?
....read more

Tanzania 'using Twitter's copyright policy to silence activists'

The guidance meant to deal with rights infringements is being deployed to muzzle critics.
....read more

Tech trends in 2021: Fast planes and homeworking

From a potentially record-breaking electric plane, to new homeworking tech, what to watch out for in 2021.
....read more

Covid-19: NI Executive votes against GB-NI travel ban

Ministers did approve plans for further guidance against all but essential travel between GB and NI.
....read more

Covid: Wuhan scientist would 'welcome' visit probing lab leak theory

A top Chinese scientist addresses claims the coronavirus leaked from her lab in the city of Wuhan.
....read more

NI police chief 'sorry' over BLM protests

Simon Byrne apologises after the policing of NI protests is found to be unfair and discriminatory.
....read more

UK government 'likely to miss' broadband and 5G targets

More must be done if the UK is to be future-proofed rather than playing catch-up, say MPs.
....read more

Newspaper headlines: 'Tier 4 for all' and 'Royals break rule of six'

Tuesday's papers report government warnings that the new variant of coronavirus is "everywhere".
....read more

MOTD 2 anaylsis: Dublin and Richards praise ‘outstanding’ performance from Scott McTominay

Match of the Day 2 pundits Dion Dublin and Micah Richards praise Scott McTominay's "outstanding" performance during Manchester United's 6-2 victory against Leeds United.
....read more

Covid-19: UK travel bans, NI Christmas bubbles and SPOTY

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Monday morning.
....read more

Covid: EU to discuss response to variant as travel bans on UK expand

European officials will discuss a co-ordinated travel response to a new coronavirus variant in the UK.
....read more

Pound slides lower as European borders close to UK

Renewed concern over Britain's Covid-19 cases and a missed EU deadline take their toll on the currency.
....read more

Covid-19: Boris Johnson to chair emergency meeting amid travel bans

Dover is severely disrupted after France closed its border over fears about a new coronavirus variant.
....read more

Covid: Australian states enforce travel bans amid Sydney outbreak

All states and territories have begun enforcing travel bans, upending Christmas plans for many people.
....read more

Covid: Thailand tests thousands after virus outbreak in seafood market

Tens of thousands will be tested after hundreds of cases linked to Thailand's biggest seafood market.
....read more

Miss France runner-up April Benayoum targeted by anti-Semitic tweets

Police are investigating insults against April Benayoum after she revealed her Israeli origins.
....read more

Brexit: Trade deal talks continue as negotiators fail to reach agreement

The UK and EU resume negotiations in Brussels with 10 days to go until the transition period ends.
....read more

The surprising science behind guide dog puppies

Caitlin was partnered with her first guide dog last year, but where do 6% of them come from?
....read more

Covid: Horrible Histories drive-in Christmas panto 'weird but wonderful'

Families are encouraged to participate by honking horns, flashing lights and turning on wipers.
....read more

Covid: The black cab tour of London’s Christmas lights

The pandemic has hit the black cab industry but one driver came up with an idea to attract customers.
....read more

Manchester shooting: 'Please help catch my husband's killer'

Abayomi Ajose was shot dead in a crowd of 400 people - but his murderer has still not been caught.
....read more

The Belgian 'hero' who invaded UK fishing waters

The story of Victor Depaepe, who tested fishing rights in UK waters granted by King Charles II.
....read more

'Yes, people have Zoom fatigue but it's not our fault'

Zoom director Aparna Bawa says video conferencing can tire people out, but her firm isn't to blame.
....read more

How should you talk to friends and relatives who believe conspiracy theories?

Advice from experts and those who used to believe conspiracy theories about how to avoid rows this festive season.
....read more

Sudan-Israel deal fuels migrants' fears

Israel is supported by some Sudanese communities, yet restoring relations may not be good news from them.
....read more

K2: 'Savage Mountain' beckons for unprecedented winter climb

Two European climbers set off this week in an attempt to scale the winter summit of K2.
....read more

Covid-19: Stormont Executive limits NI Christmas bubbles to one day

Stormont ministers held an emergency meeting on Sunday night to discuss new restrictions.
....read more

Covid: US reaches long awaited deal for coronavirus aid

The deal on the $900bn package comes as millions are jobless or in poverty due to the pandemic.
....read more

European regulator says Boeing's 737 Max is safe

Executive Director Patrick Ky said his organisation had "left no stone unturned" in its review.
....read more

The Papers: Europe bans UK travel, and 'out of control' virus

Moves by European countries to ban passengers travelling from the UK dominates Monday's papers
....read more

Confidence, momentum, quality - Micah Richards on why Man Utd are title contenders again

MOTD2 pundit Micah Richards says Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer deserves more credit than he gets for his side's resurgence.
....read more

Watch live: The Andrew Marr Show

Today's guests include Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy.
....read more

Covid-19: Millions enter toughest restrictions as cases soar

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic on Sunday.
....read more

Covid: WHO in 'close contact' with UK over new variant

UK officials say the new variant is spreading more rapidly, but it is not believed to be more deadly.
....read more

UK's Smith loses super-middleweight title to Alvarez

Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez dominates Callum Smith with a near-flawless display to inflict the first defeat of the British fighter's career.
....read more

Cheeky dogs, Ox dancing and Spider-Man bottle flips - lockdown's viral hits

As Sports Personality offers a chance to reflect on a sporting year like no other, we revisit some of the best lockdown viral videos.
....read more

Covid-19: Millions go into toughest restrictions

Nearly 18 million people entered tier four in England at midnight as cases soar.
....read more

Callum Smith v Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez: An underdog champion fights a seasoned risk-taker

Britain's Callum Smith is the world champion many have written off when he faces Mexico's Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez on Saturday.
....read more

Joe Biden says 'no time to waste' as climate team unveiled

The US president-elect says the team will lead his "ambitious plan" to combat climate change.
....read more

Covid in Sydney: New restrictions announced as outbreak grows

Curbs on gatherings are announced as authorities urge people to stay at home.
....read more

Covid: Furlough companies list should be published, MPs urge

Staff could be continuing to work as companies claim grants, the government is told.
....read more

Grenfell Tower inquiry: 'Whistleblower' refusing to give evidence

Claude Wehrle is one of at least two cladding firm workers holding out, a letter seen by the BBC reveals.
....read more

Your pictures on the theme of 'my 2020'

A selection of pictures from our readers on the theme of "my 2020".
....read more

Budget smartphones: What do you get for £100?

BBC Click's Chris Fox puts eight new budget smartphones to the test to see how they stack up.
....read more

Coronavirus: The care home DJ spreading festive cheer

Chris Morrow has been playing requests from family members who have been unable to visit loved ones.
....read more

Brexit: How to prepare for changes in 2021

Here are some of the things you can do to get prepared for the Brexit changes.
....read more

Vanessa Bryant, her mother's lawsuit and the value of childcare

Vanessa Bryant's messy legal dispute with her mother has also got us talking about the value of housework.
....read more

A Christmas Carol: How Scrooge is saving theatres this Christmas

The theatres looking to Dickens' classic tale to stay afloat and raise spirits despite Covid-19.
....read more

Covid vaccine: 'Disappearing' needles and other rumours debunked

We examine widely shared false claims about vaccines - from "disappearing" needles to a "dead" nurse.
....read more

'We're having a sustainable Christmas'

How can you have green, yet affordable, festivities?
....read more

'God will forgive me or not': Inside the world of a people smuggler

Noor charges Afghans thousands of dollars to travel to Europe. He claims he is getting out of the business.
....read more

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: 'How we survived when Mekelle was shelled'

Ethiopia's prime minister says no civilians were killed in the Tigray conflict. Three witnesses say otherwise.
....read more

Boudicca revolt: Essex dig reveals 'evidence of Roman reprisals'

Archaeologists link the destruction of a "high status" village to the uprising in Roman Britain.
....read more

The Papers: 'Christmas cancelled', and 'surging mutant virus'

The new festive restrictions dominate Sunday's papers, with the PM facing increasing criticism.
....read more

Dionne Warwick: How 'Auntie' tweeted herself to newfound fame in 2020

Turns out, having a career that spans decades and being hilarious are not mutually exclusive.
....read more

India bowled out for 36 as Australia win first Test by eight wickets

India are steamrollered for 36 - their lowest total in Test cricket - as Australia win the first Test in Adelaide by eight wickets.
....read more

FC Santa Claus manager on running a football club in Lapland: 'I've never been so happy in my life'

Ralf Wunderlich has taken charge at Finnish club FC Santa Claus - and may just have the most famous 'boss' in world football.
....read more

Covid: Italy latest European country to order Christmas lockdown

Non-essential shops will be closed with travel only allowed for work, health and emergency reasons.
....read more

Strictly Come Dancing: 7 memorable moments from this series

Bill Bailey, HRVY, Maisie Smith and Jamie Laing will compete for the glitterball trophy on Saturday.
....read more

Covid: Ministers meet amid rising infection rates in England

The PM is "hoping to avoid" another national lockdown, but nearly 90% of hospital beds are full.
....read more

Covid: US approves Moderna as second vaccine

The Food and Drug Administration gives the green light for releasing millions of doses.
....read more

Long Covid: 'I used to run, now I can walk 200 metres'

Dr Nathalie MacDermott, 38, explains how Covid-19 has affected her life.
....read more

Brexit: UK-EU trade talks enter critical 48-hour period

The EU says the "moment of truth" has arrived as disagreements with the UK over fishing rights continue.
....read more

Met Police officer sues over 'sexual and racist' texts

The ex-officer is suing her former colleague after he used racist and sexual language in his messages.
....read more

Covid-19: Fake 'immunity booster' found on sale in London shops

Tests carried out for the BBC show herbal remedy Coronil offers no protection from coronavirus.
....read more

Graham Norton presents his final Radio 2 show after 10 years

The star is moving to Virgin Radio after a decade hosting Saturday mornings for Radio 2.
....read more

Quiz of the Year, part two: What went on during lockdown?

How well do you remember the news of the past 12 months?
....read more

Microplastics, drugs and food - how jellyfish can help us

Jellyfish are being used to develop new medicines, filters for microplastics and for food.
....read more

Blindian Project: Celebrating black and South Asian relationships

Blindian Project runs workshops to prepare couples for tricky family introductions.
....read more

North Korea: Potato propaganda is back... but what does it mean?

Why is North Korea promoting the humble spud in movies, culinary shows, and news reports?
....read more

Week in pictures: 12-18 December 2020

A selection of some of the most powerful images taken around the world this week.
....read more

The 'ghost' silhouettes popping up in a Scottish Borders village

Residents of West Linton have seen all kinds of creatures appear since the Covid pandemic began.
....read more

Sir David Attenborough on Joe Biden, Christmas wrapping... and flamingos

Sir David examines how wildlife adapts to the forces of nature, such as volcanoes, in a new series.
....read more

Covid at Christmas: 'Chris Whitty is more popular than Britney Spears'

England's chief medical officer and his deputy Jonathan Van-Tam prove popular with shoppers.
....read more

My Money: 'I'm a 33-weeks' pregnant doctor'

Helen Edwards, an NHS doctor from the West Midlands in the UK takes us through her week's spending.
....read more

Faith and fertility at Bethlehem's Milk Grotto

Some say the place where Mary is said to have nursed Jesus holds the power to help couples conceive.
....read more

Employers back requirement for large firms to disclose ethnicity pay gaps

A government report seen by the BBC suggests strong support for large firms having to publish the data.
....read more

Openreach creating 5,300 new jobs to speed fibre rollout

The wholesale internet division of BT has been told to speed up the rollout of ultra-fast connections.
....read more

'Appalling' safety at Asda buyers' former company

Packaging firm co-owned by Mohsin and Zuber Issa was prosecuted after a series of injuries
....read more

Covid: Pandemic 'exposes' UK security planning gaps

The response to Covid was "inadequate" and more could have been done to prepare, a report says.
....read more

Chef 'comes of age' to win Masterchef: The Professionals title

The winner of this year's Masterchef: The Professionals series says "it is the best feeling ever".
....read more

Covid: Moderna vaccine moves closer to US approval

A panel of US experts say the Moderna vaccine should be given emergency use approval.
....read more

Electric cars will leave hole in tax revenues, says Treasury

The Treasury says taxes must rise or services cut to compensate for the loss of fuel tax income.
....read more

Google sued again over anti-competitive search practices

US states accuse Google of unfairly abusing monopolies to dominate new tech like voice assistants.
....read more

Dog theft: Organised crime driving ‘epidemic’ of dog snatching

Dog theft: Organised crime driving ‘epidemic’ of dog snatching.
....read more

Wildfire smoke may spread infectious disease

Smoke from wildfires could be a surprising new route for the spread of microbes, experts believe.
....read more

Celebrating Hanukkah and tackling anti-Semitism

Young Jews have marked the festival by posting videos honouring traditions and fighting anti-Semitism.
....read more

Quiz of the Year, part one: Can you even remember January?

How well do you remember the news of the past 12 months?
....read more

US couple find 100-year-old whisky bottles hidden in walls of home

In 1920, the US banned alcohol but bootleggers went to extraordinary lengths to hide the illicit goods.
....read more

US congressman Joe Cunningham opens beer to toast bipartisanship

Joe Cunningham uses his farewell speech to call on people to "listen to each other, maybe even have a beer".
....read more

Coronavirus and Christmas: 'I can't wait to see my grandkids'

A family look forward to being reunited at Christmas, after being separated for 10 months.
....read more

Covid: How schools managed to save the Christmas nativity

Schools have found new ways of celebrating the festive period during the coronavirus pandemic.
....read more

Coronavirus: Swiss count cost of surge in deaths

Swiss leaders decide on Friday whether to impose tougher measures, as deaths reach 100 a day.
....read more

Biden cabinet: Does this new team better reflect America?

The role of a president's inaugural cabinet goes beyond just policy - let's take a closer look.
....read more

Creating animal food from a greenhouse gas

Animal feed is often transported thousands of miles so scientists are looking at new production methods.
....read more

The angry pop song calling out China's domestic violence problem

Xiao Juan is the first pop song in China to openly discuss what is seen by many as a sensitive topic.
....read more

Long Covid: Hospital patients to get checks at six weeks

Official guidance has identified 28 common symptoms like breathlessness, dizziness and chest pain.
....read more

US cyber-attack: Hack of government agencies and companies poses 'grave risk'

The US cyber-security agency says thwarting the attack will be "highly complex and challenging".
....read more

Covid: Sydney residents urged to stay home amid new outbreak

Residents are told to stay home as officials scramble to contain a cluster ahead of Christmas.
....read more

The Papers: 'Bleakest midwinter' as Covid tiers extended

The extension of tier three Covid rules to more parts of England is the focus for many of Friday's front pages.
....read more

Australian Open delayed by three weeks due to coronavirus pandemic

The Australian Open will start on 8 February next year after being pushed back because of the coronavirus pandemic.
....read more

Toy deliveries to miss Christmas amid port delays

With Christmas fast approaching, popular lines including Lego, dolls and puzzles are out of stock at some toy stores.
....read more

Brexit trade talks with India: 'We don't duck the difficult issues'

Dominic Rabb says the UK wants a post-Brexit trade deal with India, but will also hold it accountable for human rights issues.
....read more

Google ad practices under fire in new lawsuit

Ten US states accuse the tech firm of illegally trying to preserve its online advertising monopoly.
....read more

Royal Christmas card: Prince William and Kate release family photograph

Charles and Camilla also release an annual photo, showing the couple smiling in their garden.
....read more

Covid: Areas in England await Covid tier changes

NHS bosses express concern about "prematurely" easing restrictions in some areas.
....read more

Covid: Cancer scan backlog raises late detection fears

Waiting times grow across the UK for potentially life-saving MRI and CAT scans, figures show.
....read more

Dancing starling spectacle solves power cut mystery in Airth

Engineers investigating the unexplained outages found they were caused by murmurations of starlings.
....read more

Covid: Woman discovers 'thrill' of wildlife photography in lockdown

Laura Lake now loves capturing wildlife after borrowing a camera and a zoom lens earlier this year.
....read more

In pictures: The beauty of toilets

Photographer Elena Heatherwick captures the stories behind them in villages in Rwanda and Madagascar.
....read more

Our Lives: 'It's not impossible to be happy'

BBC journalist Emma Clifford Bell visits Drumchapel, Scotland, to see how lockdown has impacted lives there.
....read more

'Christmas is here again' sung by schools around the UK

Emma Hutchinson's efforts to create something positive in lockdown led to a Christmas song.
....read more

Coronavirus doctor's diary: 'Have I got Covid for a second time?'

Dr John Wright thought he'd had Covid in spring - but last week he tested positive. So what's going on?
....read more

Viola Davis: 'In my world, there are a lot of Ma Raineys'

Viola Davis on her new movie with Chadwick Boseman and how black women are represented on screen.
....read more

How Phoebe Bridgers made one of 2020's best albums

The making of Punisher, from break-ups and primal screams to learning how to drive a tractor.
....read more

UK and US in talks over mini trade deal

US trade chief Robert Lighthizer says he is working with Liz Truss on a deal to reduce trade tariffs.
....read more

Cancelling Christmas: 'They said they understood'

As infections rise, these people say they've decided to cancel their Christmas plans.
....read more

Covid and vitamin D: 'Not enough evidence' for treatment

People are still advised to take a daily supplement this winter to keep bones and muscles healthy.
....read more

China's Chang'e-5 mission returns Moon samples

A capsule lands in Inner Mongolia with the first lunar rock to be brought to Earth in 44 years.
....read more

Dangerous cladding: 'Fire patrols at our flats cost us £500,000'

Years after flammable cladding issues emerged, more flat owners are facing costly 24-hour patrols.
....read more

Marcus Rashford's mum: 'Sometimes we didn't even have bread in the house'

Speaking publicly for the first time, Mel Maynard says sometimes she went without food so her children could eat.
....read more

More families 'trapped in temporary accommodation' in England

The number of people without a permanent home in England is at its highest level in 14 years, a report says.
....read more

The Papers: PM's 'stark warning' for merry 'little' Christmas

Boris Johnson's call for a short, small celebration makes it on to most of Thursday's front pages.
....read more

'Large fire' at Drayton Manor theme park

No-one was injured and all animals are safe, the theme park says.
....read more

Covid-19: Singapore migrant workers infections were three times higher

New data shows the number of infections was three times higher than previously estimated.
....read more

Covid: Relaxation of UK Christmas rules 'unlikely to change'

Tougher guidance about the dangers of mixing is set to be issued after a meeting of the four nations.
....read more

Facebook to move all UK users onto US agreements

The move could allow the social media giant to avoid strict EU privacy laws being introduced.
....read more

MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.2bn in four months

The ex-wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has been focusing on women, people of colour and food banks.
....read more

Gay conversion therapy: Hundreds of religious leaders call for ban

More than 370 leaders from the world's major faiths join a call to stop "harmful practices".
....read more

'Tier 3 has ruined our dream restaurant opening'

With sit-down dining now off the menu in much of England, restaurant owners say they're facing a difficult Christmas.
....read more

Rail fares to rise more than expected next year

January's planned rise is delayed until March - when prices will increase by an inflation-busting 2.6%.
....read more

Great Pyramid: Lost Egyptian artefact found in Aberdeen cigar box

The 5,000-year-old piece of wood, originally found in the Great Pyramid in 1872, is said to be "hugely significant".
....read more

Covid: First care home residents in Wales get vaccine

A care home pilot for the Covid jab will begin later ahead of a possible rollout before Christmas.
....read more

Post-Grenfell cladding inspections find other fire risks

Hundreds of tower blocks have been discovered with faulty fire prevention measures, the BBC finds.
....read more

Prince Harry and Meghan sign Spotify podcast deal

In a trailer, the couple promise "different perspectives" and interviews with "amazing people".
....read more

What are the Christmas Covid rules?

Laura Foster explains who you can see and how to stay safe.
....read more

Prato: The Italian town turning rags into new clothes

A small Italian town has built its fortune on transforming the world's old scraps into new clothes.
....read more

Kangaroos can 'communicate' with humans, study finds

Their behaviour challenges a notion that such abilities come only from domestication, a study finds.
....read more

Our Lives: 'We don't have to be shooting each other'

The BBC's Fergal Keane returns to Northern Ireland to see how one community is dealing with the legacy of the Troubles.
....read more

Beirut explosion: The architect rebuilding families' homes for free

Joe Salloum and his team are bringing hope, and homes, back to people who live in the poorest areas of Beirut.
....read more

Historic England: Shipwreck and Selfridges on 2020 protected list

Historic England has added 423 sites to its National Heritage List in 2020.
....read more

Vaccine doctors on TikTok: 'Come for the fun, stay for the science'

Meet the doctors working on vaccines and providing information about the jabs on TikTok.
....read more

The Archers tackles the 'hidden' connection between disability and modern slavery

As The Archers reveal three characters kept as slaves have a learning or mental health disability, how widespread is the problem in the UK?
....read more

Housing: Formula for locating new homes revised after Tory backlash

Urban developments in the Midlands and north of England will now be prioritised in government U-turn.
....read more

Ethiopia's Tigray crisis: About 2.3 million children cut off from aid, UN says

The UN urges access to the region where Ethiopian government forces have been battling local fighters.
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The Papers: 'Carry on Christmas' as PM refuses to scrap rules

The front pages focus on whether plans to ease restrictions over Christmas could be scrapped or cut.
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Universal Credit: 'I felt guilty claiming benefits for the first time'

Women under the age of 30 have seen the sharpest increase in unemployment benefit claims since March.
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A68a iceberg: Science mission to investigate frozen giant

Scientists will send robotic vehicles under the colossal berg drifting in the South Atlantic.
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Covid-19 isolation 'detrimental for children' - Ofsted

Periods of repeated isolation have "chipped away" at pupils' progress pupil , says the head of Ofsted.
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New Covid strain: How worried should we be?

Scientists will keep a close eye on this variant to see if it is a better spreader than others.
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Covid: Millions more face tier 3 as new strain identified

London, most of Essex and parts of Hertfordshire will enter the toughest restrictions on Wednesday.
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Gay 'conversion therapy': Man given electric shocks demands apology

A university is accused of giving traumatising electric shocks in the 1970s to "cure" homosexuality.
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Joe Biden says 'will of people prevailed' after victory confirmed

The Democrat has been formally certified as the next US president by the country's electoral college.
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Covid: Twelve charts on how Covid changed our lives

From cancelled operations to benefit claim rises, how has the pandemic impacted peoples' lives?
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Australia storms: Floods spark evacuation warnings for NSW towns

Some New South Wales residents are told to leave their homes, after storms batter two states.
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Actor Craig McLachlan cleared of indecent assault

The former Neighbours actor has consistently denied allegations raised by four women in Australia.
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Cartoonist Charlie Mackesy: 'Don't give up, the storm ends'

Cartoonist Charlie Mackesy dedicated his drawings to the people on the front line tackling Covid-19.
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Nottingham street dancer: ‘Why I dance in front of strangers’

Jamal Sterrett performs a style known as bruk up.
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Experiencing a lockdown world through hang gliding

Hang glider Wolfgang Siess lost his job due to coronavirus, so he started filming his flights to try and attract more people to the sport.
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Yemen: How Covid-19 spread in a war zone

Already facing a humanitarian crisis, Yemenis have been left in the dark over the coronavirus outbreak.
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MasterChef final is dream come true for Nepal’s Santosh Shah

Getting to the MasterChef final is like a dream for Santosh Shah, who is from a tiny village in Nepal.
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'We'd just begun our careers - and then the pandemic hit'

The sudden lockdown in March turned the world of work upside down for millions, including the very newest, apprentices.
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Hunger spikes, demand rises for US food banks

Amid the pandemic, one in eight Americans say their household has experienced a food shortage.
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A palm oil alternative could help save rainforests

Plantations for palm oil are blamed for rainforest destruction, but an artificial palm oil is close.
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Senegal's Dakar Fashion Week: The catwalk in a baobab forest

Held outside because of the pandemic, a fashion show in Senegal embraces the environmental message.
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Online harms law to let regulator block apps in UK

Ofcom would also be able to fine services huge sums if it believed they had failed to protect users.
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'Unconscious bias training' scrapped by ministers

The government stops anti-bias training for civil servants and wants it to end across public sector.
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Hackney triple shooting: Man critical and two injured

Three men were rushed to hospital with "gunshot injuries" after the shooting in Hackney.
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The Papers: 'Mutant' Covid as London 'plunged' into tier 3

A new variant of the virus and the capital going into the top level of restrictions dominates the front pages.
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Spain housing: Evictions and broken promises in a pandemic

Spain's prime minister promised nobody would be evicted during the pandemic but activists say thousands have.
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'He ran the Baggies ragged' - who made Garth Crooks' team of the week?

Which striker made Garth Crooks' team of the week despite not having a shot? Find out here.
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Brexit trade talks: Process 'still has legs', UK source says

UK and EU negotiators to continue talks after both sides agreed to "go the extra mile" to reach a deal.
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Covid-19: White House officials to receive some of first Pfizer vaccines

Top officials are set to be given some of the first vaccines, which are being rolled out in the US.
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New Zealand and Australia agree on quarantine-free travel bubble

Both countries have very few cases and will allow travellers to go back and forth without quarantine.
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New Zealand sex worker wins six-figure sum in sexual harassment case

The payout comes after the woman filed a sexual harassment case against a business owner.
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Covid vaccine: How does a vaccine get approved?

The NHS is carrying out the biggest mass vaccination campaign in its history - what safety checks were made?
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Covid-19: London council tells schools to teach online

The leader of one council writes to head teachers and parents warning of "extreme risk" of rising cases.
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Covid PPE: Hospital gowns that cost £122m never been used

Medical safety gear worth millions of pounds has yet to be distributed months after it was bought.
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Challenging dementia 'stigma' in Sikh communities

Nirmal Singh says he wants his community to learn from his family's experience with the disease.
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US election 2020: What is the electoral college?

The president of the United States is not chosen directly by voters, but by what's known as the electoral college.
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Contact tracer: 'People threaten us and block our calls'

An NHS Test and Trace worker says many members of the public don't answer or refuse to co-operate.
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The new podcast ‘smashing the box’ of disabled feminism

An 'unsanitised' retelling of the lives of Helen Keller, Mabel Normand and Rosa May Billinghurst in a new podcast reveals their impact on modern feminism.
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The surprise Christmas show for an audience of one

Dundee Rep Theatre is staging individual performances of its Christmas show at the homes of lucky nominees.
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How clean is the air in your office?

Due to Covid, and many of us hoping to return to the office in 2021, workplace air quality is a growing concern.
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Kenya's black market baby trade: A mother's choice

What drives a mother to sell her baby for £70? The story of a woman caught between poverty and traffickers.
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Covid vaccine: GPs in England to begin offering Pfizer jab

Surgeries in more than 100 locations are receiving their first deliveries of the Pfizer jab.
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Blood donation: Rule change means more gay and bisexual men can give blood

Men who have sex with men in a long-term relationship will now be able to donate blood at any time.
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Australia storms: Wild weather lashes vast stretch of east coast

Heavy rain and huge ocean swells batter popular tourist spots, prompting hundreds of calls for help.
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The moment landmark hotel demolished in Virginia

The former Holiday Inn offered views of Washington DC, but was brought down without a hitch in a controlled implosion.
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Newspaper headlines: Extra time in Brexit talks for a "final push"

The ongoing Brexit talks dominate the front pages as the UK and EU agree to extend negotiations.
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What next for Arsenal as Gunners make worst start since 1974-75?

Kieran Tierney said Arsenal "deserved" to be booed off after being stunned at home by Burnley, so just how bad is the situation for the Gunners right now?
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Selby beats O'Sullivan to retain Scottish Open title

Mark Selby retains the Scottish Open title with a commanding 9-3 win over world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan in Milton Keynes.
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Charley Pride: Country music singer dies of Covid-19

The Grammy-winning artist was the first black singer to enter the Country Music Hall of Fame.
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Covid-19: 'Third wave' warning and how work from home couples are coping

Five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic on Sunday.
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Covid-19: How are couples coping with home working?

More people than ever are finding themselves working from home, often alongside their partner.
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Poulter, Fleetwood, Westwood and Stenson surprise Covid-19 doctor

Professional golfers Ian Poulter, Tommy Fleetwood, Henrik Stenson and Lee Westwood surprise a Covid-19 doctor with a day that she will never forget.
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Figueiredo overcomes point deduction to defend title at UFC 256

UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo retain his title after a thrilling majority draw decision against Brandon Moreno in the main event of UFC 256 in Las Vegas.
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Brexit: EU offer 'unacceptable' as trade talks continue

Post-Brexit trade talks have entered their final day but sources say there is little sign of agreement.
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US Covid vaccination: 'The mission begins'

Gen Gustave Perna says he is confident of the safe distribution of the "precious commodity" across the US.
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Paolo Rossi: Italian World Cup hero's home burgled during funeral

A watch and cash are among items reported stolen from the late World Cup winner's home on Saturday.
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Scotland care home vaccinations begin on Monday

Both staff and older residents will begin receiving the Pfizer/ BioNTech vaccine from the start of this week.
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Teenage glider pilot flies solo for first time on 14th birthday

Alex Westgate completed the flight in Leicestershire after he started training in March.
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Electoral College: The people who ultimately pick the US president

Members of the US Electoral College meet on Monday - but who are they?
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‘I was in prison at 20 - and a music executive by 28’

As he faced jail, the life Niyah Smith had once dreamed of looked impossible. But then came a chance to turn his fortunes around.
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Covid vaccines: Will drug companies make bumper profits?

Governments and charities have invested billions in vaccines developed by private firms.
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No pickers, no coffee: How Covid threatens Colombia's harvest

Labour shortages caused by the coronavirus pandemic are hitting coffee growers in Colombia hard.
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The women inspiring others in a male-dominated industry

Women who have risen to the top in the banking world share the challenges they have faced.
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Impressive AJ, fans return, Fury responds & Mayweather's surprise appearance

Anthony Joshua stops Kubrat Pulev in style, fans return and Floyd Mayweather's surprise appearance - how the boxing world reacted.
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Call of Duty: US and British military go head to head

Teams from the US and British forces compete for the first time to raise money for veteran charities.
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Anthony Joshua knocks out Kubrat Pulev to raise hope of Tyson Fury bout

Unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua floors Kubrat Pulev four times on his way to a knockout win.
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Newspaper headlines: 'Hours from a no deal' and Tory grandee 'fury'

The impending UK-EU trade talks deadline dominates the front pages.
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Abortion laws: Polish women forced abroad for terminations

Poland has been rocked by weeks of protest over a ruling by the Constitutional Court, which has all but outlawed abortion, forcing even more Polish women to seek abortions abroad.
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Hurricane season 2020: Is global warming making hurricanes stronger?

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the most active on record, according to the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration. Is it a result of global warming?
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Drag Race UK: The Frock Destroyers on making music in lockdown

Divina De Campo, Blu Hydrangea and Baga Chipz appeared on season one of RuPaul's Drag Race UK.
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Heritage railway decked out with 13,000 Christmas lights

A heritage railway is running special seasonal services in the run up to Christmas.
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Covid: US drugs agency FDA approves Pfizer vaccine

The US Food and Drug Administration gave its approval late on Friday after White House pressure.
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'Test and dine' proposed to support Birmingham restaurants

Many of Birmingham's hospitality businesses have been forced to close since the second lockdown.
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Pubs in Scotland prepare for level 3 reopening

Hospitality venues will be able to open on Saturday, however, no alcohol can be sold, and premises must close at 18:00.
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Alfred Bourgeois: Second death row inmate executed in two days

President Donald Trump has planned three more executions before he leaves office on 20 January.
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Brexit: UK-EU trade talks to resume with one day to go

Four Royal Navy boats have been placed on standby to patrol UK waters as negotiations enter their final hours.
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What is climate change?

Countries are to set out how they intend to cut their emissions, but what's brought us to this point?
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Climate change: UK to end aid for fossil fuel projects abroad

As the UK hosts a key climate summit, the government announces an end to funding for overseas oil and gas.
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Space tourism: Virgin space plane set for first crewed flight

Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic embarks on the first crewed flight of its rocket-powered tourist plane.
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Aztec skull tower: Archaeologists unearth new sections in Mexico City

A further 119 skulls of men, women and children are found near a famous Aztec temple in Mexico City.
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Klarna plans to tell credit agencies if repayments fail

The Buy Now, Pay Later firm Klarna tells Money Box it plans to start reporting missed payments to credit referencing agencies.
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Monkeys could be banned as pets, says government

Many of the thousands of primates kept in homes in England are said to be living in misery.
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Covid: London's coronavirus levels rising, ONS says

But infections kept falling in most English regions as the second lockdown ended.
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Newspaper headlines: Christmas plans warning and 'IT chaos' hits vaccines

A call to rethink Christmas bubbles and a warning from GPs over computer systems are among the stories leading the papers.
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How Saddam Hussein tried to break into the film business

Oliver Reed travelled to Iraq in the 1980s when Saddam Hussein tried to join the movie business.
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Covid: Homeless people in Milton Keynes left struggling for shelter

The BBC's Jon Ironmonger met rough sleepers on the streets of Milton Keynes.
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The Balkans on film, 25 years since the Dayton Agreement

Scottish photographer Chris Leslie has worked in the region since the 1995 Dayton Agreement.
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Week in pictures: 5 - 11 December 2020

A selection of striking images taken around the world this week.
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Covid vaccine: How will the UK jab millions of people?

The logistics of delivering the biggest vaccination programme the country has ever seen.
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The science of addiction: Do you always like the things you want?

A leading US scientist, Prof Kent Berridge, has transformed our understanding of human desire.
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Pushbacks: Migrants accuse Greece of sending them back out to sea

Greece insists such accusations are an insult but some migrants documented their trips with GPS.
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Test and Trace: 'Tackling Covid got me a job'

Newsbeat finds out what it’s like to work for NHS Test and Trace.
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'I made £1,265 selling my clothes second-hand'

Resale clothing and accessories sites like Depop, Poshmark and ThredUp say activity is up due to the pandemic.
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US Supreme Court rejects Trump-backed bid to overturn election

The lawsuit sought to invalidate results in four states where President Trump lost the US election.
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Covid: China asks cabin crew to wear nappies to reduce virus risk

New coronavirus guidelines recommend cabin crew use disposable diapers and avoid the toilet.
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Covid: Australian vaccine abandoned over false HIV response

Trials of the Australian vaccine returned false-positive HIV tests, but did not harm participants.
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Albanian protesters burn Christmas trees over police killing

Protesters are angry after a man was allegedly killed by police for breaking a coronavirus curfew.
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Disney ramps up Star Wars and Marvel franchises

The move marks another industry shift away from cinema to streaming.
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Quiz of the week: Moon for sale - but for how much?

How closely have you been paying attention to what's been going on during the past seven days?
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Ma Rainey's Black Bottom: Chadwick Boseman 'a character actor'

Oscar-winner, Davis, stars alongside Boseman in the highly anticipated Ma Rainey's Black Bottom.
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Brexit: Is the EU treating the UK differently?

With no agreement on a Brexit trade deal, Ros Atkins takes a look at what the UK and EU are demanding.
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New Zealand: Fixing the ruined Christchurch Cathedral that's frozen in time

New drone footage shows Christchurch Cathedral that's been untouched since the 2011 earthquake.
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Revenge of the secretaries: The protest movement that inspired the film 9 to 5

The 1980 hit comedy 9 to 5 was inspired by a real protest movement, which is profiled in a new documentary.
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Waldemar Haffkine: The vaccine pioneer the world forgot

Waldemar Haffkine created the world's first vaccines for cholera and plague. Then a disaster derailed his life.
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Plexiglass, sanitiser and masks: US mall Santas prepare for Christmas

Malls that have hosted visits with Santa for over 100 years are being forced to change their approach.
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Latin America politics: UK's 1960s covert activity revealed

Declassified files reveal Britain's attempts to wield influence in Latin America in the 1960s.
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Ridley Scott inspires Network Rail’s cave-exploring drone

Scenes from the movie Prometheus inspired Network Rail to develop a drone that can explore caves.
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Dame Barbara Windsor: Carry On and EastEnders actress dies aged 83

The actress was best known for her roles in EastEnders and the Carry On films.
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Covid in Scotland: Shops to reopen as toughest restrictions eased

Non-essential shops across much of western Scotland - including Glasgow - will open for first time in three weeks.
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Climate change: Covid drives record emissions drop in 2020

The world has seen the biggest annual fall in CO2 emissions since World War Two, say researchers.
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Hundreds of volunteers are helping to map the Great Barrier Reef

Volunteers have been asked to take and categorise thousands of photos of the Great Barrier Reef.
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Covid-19: Lockdown restrictions lift across NI

Businesses such as restaurants, cafes and hotels, can reopen but "drink-only" pubs must stay shut.
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Charity that helped Grenfell victims 'institutionally racist', review says

A review finds the London-based Westway Trust "lost sight of the reason for its establishment".
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Covid testing of students finds few positive cases

First results of mass Covid testing of students report "low numbers" of positive cases.
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In pictures: Barbara Windsor

Actress Dame Barbara Windsor, best known for her roles in EastEnders and the Carry On films, has died aged 83.
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Obituary: Barbara Windsor

Bubbly, blonde Carry On pin-up who became the matriarch of the Queen Vic.
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The Papers: Prepare for 'Aussie rules' Brexit as talks stall

Boris Johnson's warning to prepare for no deal dominates the front pages.
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Cyberpunk 2077: The story behind the video game

The creators of the highly anticipated title reveal their inspirations.
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US Covid vaccine: Three key questions answered

How will Americans receive the vaccine? Will it be free? And will enough people take it?
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Brexit: UK and Singapore sign free trade agreement

The deal is one of many aimed at replicating trade pacts that will cease when the UK leaves the EU.
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