Mine tunnels confirmed around giant sinkhole site

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Engineers found old sand mining tunnels near a large sinkhole in Godstone, Surrey, which might explain why the road collapsed in February. Local businesses have struggled financially due to the road closure, and authorities aim to reopen the road by December. Residents have returned to their homes after being evacuated, and authorities assure that it is safe.

Key Facts:

• Engineers discovered Victorian-era sand mining tunnels around the sinkhole site.
• The tunnels are about eight meters (26 feet) deep.
• Authorities believe these tunnels might explain why the road collapsed.
• Approximately 30 families had to leave their homes but have since returned.
• Local businesses report significant income losses due to reduced foot traffic.
• Authorities plan to reopen the road by December, pending safety assurances.
• Efforts are ongoing to reconnect essential services like water, gas, and electricity.
• Residents expressed concerns at a public meeting regarding traffic and safety.

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Weekly quiz: What did Taylor Swift buy back?

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

This week, Ukraine launched a drone attack on Russian airfields. Former President Donald Trump placed travel bans on people from 12 countries. Billie Piper came back to the show Doctor Who.

Key Facts:

• Ukraine used drones to attack Russian airfields.
• Former President Donald Trump banned travelers from 12 countries from entering the United States.
• Billie Piper returned to the TV show Doctor Who.

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The Queen of Clay's reign ends - but Swiatek 'will be back'

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Iga Swiatek lost in the semi-finals of the 2025 French Open to Aryna Sabalenka, ending her impressive winning streak at the tournament. Despite recent challenges, including a change of coach and a doping test issue last year, Swiatek showed resilience in her matches and sees positives in her performance.

Key Facts:

• Iga Swiatek lost in the semi-finals of the 2025 French Open to Aryna Sabalenka.
• This was Swiatek's first loss at the French Open since 2021.
• Swiatek had previously won four of the last five French Open titles.
• Swiatek's winning streak of 26 matches at the French Open was ended by Sabalenka.
• Swiatek has not reached a final since her previous French Open victory.
• Swiatek failed a doping test in 2024 for a heart medication, receiving a one-month ban.
• Swiatek switched coaches at the end of last year, now working with Wim Fissette.
• Swiatek aims to improve her form despite challenges on and off the court.

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Couple save six people after boat explodes on river

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

A couple named Josh Hobbs and Hannah Lloyd-Hobbs saved six people, including four children, after a boat exploded on the River Thames. The couple, who were on holiday, jumped into the water to help after hearing a loud noise and realizing people were in danger.

Key Facts:

• A boat explosion occurred on the River Thames involving five adults and four children.
• Josh Hobbs and Hannah Lloyd-Hobbs rescued six people, including an 18-month-old child.
• The couple acted quickly after hearing a loud bang and jumped into the water to help.
• The explosion was so loud that it was heard from miles away.
• An 18-month-old child and another person suffered serious injuries that could change their lives.
• Nine people were taken to a hospital, and three remained in stable condition.
• The police described the incident as miraculous with no fatalities, crediting the couple's quick response.

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Private school pupil numbers drop by 11,000

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

There are 11,000 fewer students in private schools in England this January compared to last year. The drop happened after the government started charging VAT on private school fees. This change might be putting more financial pressure on parents.

Key Facts:

• Private school enrollment in England fell by 11,000 students this January.
• The decline followed the introduction of a 20% VAT on private school fees starting January 1.
• The total number of students in private schools is now about 582,477.
• Private school students currently make up 6.4% of all students in England.
• This is the first drop in private school numbers since the Covid-19 pandemic.
• The government estimates that 3,000 students might switch to state schools this year due to the VAT change.
• Some believe the increase in fees due to VAT is causing parents to reconsider private schooling.
• The government expects the VAT will eventually raise £1.8 billion yearly to support public services.

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Boy and girl sentenced for killing dog walker, 80

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Two teenagers have been sentenced for the manslaughter of Bhim Kohli, an 80-year-old man, in a park in Leicestershire. The boy received seven years in custody, while the girl was given a three-year youth rehabilitation order and a six-month curfew. Mr. Kohli died from injuries inflicted during the attack.

Key Facts:

• Bhim Kohli, 80, was attacked while walking his dog in Franklin Park, Leicestershire.
• A 15-year-old boy racially abused and assaulted Mr. Kohli, and was sentenced to seven years in custody.
• A 13-year-old girl filmed the attack and was sentenced to a three-year youth rehabilitation order with a six-month curfew.
• Mr. Kohli suffered broken ribs and a fractured spine, which led to his death the next day.
• His children found him in pain at the park after the attack.
• The court did not determine the attack was motivated by race, despite the use of racist language.
• Mr. Kohli had reported previous incidents of racial harassment in the area.
• The case was reviewed by Leicestershire Police and the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

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Rare diamond tiara fetches £889,400 at auction

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

A diamond and turquoise tiara owned by Nancy Astor, the first woman to take a seat in the UK House of Commons, sold for £889,400 at an auction conducted by Bonhams in London. The tiara was originally purchased by Astor's husband in 1930 and was worn by Astor to a film premiere in 1931.

Key Facts:

• The tiara sold for £889,400 at a London auction.
• It belonged to Nancy Astor, the first woman to sit in the UK House of Commons.
• Astor held her parliamentary seat from 1919 to 1945.
• The tiara was acquired by Astor's husband, Lord Waldorf Astor, in 1930.
• It featured turquoise and diamond decorations and includes rose-cut and brilliant-cut diamonds.
• The tiara was worn by Astor to the premiere of "City Lights" by Charlie Chaplin in 1931.
• Bonhams, the auction house, originally estimated its value between £250,000 and £350,000.
• Nancy Astor campaigned for changes in the drinking age and women's voting rights during her time in government.

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How can Man Utd afford Mbeumo deal?

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Manchester United agreed to sign Brazilian player Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million. They are also trying to buy Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford for £45 million plus potential additional payments. Despite financial concerns, a football finance expert says United can spend up to £150 million on new players without breaking financial rules.

Key Facts:

• Manchester United agreed to pay £62.5 million for Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
• The club also offered £45 million plus £10 million in potential extra payments for Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
• United missed out on Champions League participation, losing potential earnings of £70 million.
• Bruno Fernandes declined a lucrative move to a Saudi Arabian club.
• Football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes United can spend £150 million on transfers without financial issues.
• The club is not losing as much money as some reports suggest, based on internal financial structures.
• United ranked 15th in the Premier League last season.
• The club's financial calculations use a company called Red Football, which helps avoid breaking financial rules.

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Doctor 'astounded' by how fast student fell ill

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Bethan James, a 21-year-old student, died at University Hospital of Wales from sepsis, pneumonia, and Crohn's disease. A doctor at the hospital mentioned her health declined very quickly, and he believed no treatment could have saved her. An expert witness disagreed, suggesting there were missed opportunities to save her life.

Key Facts:

• Bethan James died on February 8, 2020, at University Hospital of Wales.
• She suffered from sepsis, pneumonia, and Crohn's disease.
• Dr. Duncan Thomas noted her rapid health decline and thought treatment wouldn't have helped.
• An expert witness, Dr. Chris Danbury, believed Ms. James might have survived with different care.
• Ms. James was initially sent to an area with less intense care than she might have needed.
• Dr. Thomas said rapid intervention might have delayed cardiac arrest but not prevented her death.
• The sepsis was caused by pneumonia, which was likely viral in nature.
• A high-level intervention might have improved her chances, according to Dr. Danbury.

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'There is no crisis' before Euro 2025 - Wiegman

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

England's women's football coach, Sarina Wiegman, says there is no crisis, even though three important players have recently left the team just before Euro 2025. These changes come as England prepares to defend their champion title in the tournament starting on July 2 in Switzerland.

Key Facts:

• England manager Sarina Wiegman insists the team is not in crisis despite recent challenges.
• Three senior players have left the team: Mary Earps and Fran Kirby retired, and Millie Bright withdrew for personal reasons.
• The players who left have a combined total of 217 appearances (caps) for the national team.
• England announced a 23-player squad for Euro 2025.
• Sarina Wiegman is aiming to win a third consecutive UEFA Women's Euros title as a manager.
• There has been increased media attention as the visibility of women's football has grown.
• Wiegman has dealt with player-related issues before, like bonus disagreements and squad selections.
• Despite difficulties, Wiegman remains focused on moving forward with the team.

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James and Agyemang in England's Euro 2025 squad

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

England's coach Sarina Wiegman has chosen Lauren James for the European Championship squad, even though she hasn't played since April due to a hamstring injury. The squad also includes newcomer Michelle Agyemang and faces challenging teams like France, Netherlands, and Wales in their group.

Key Facts:

• Lauren James is returning to play for England after a hamstring injury in April.
• She is part of a 23-player squad for the upcoming European Championship.
• England's team also includes 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, who made a strong debut against Belgium.
• England won Euro 2022 and will play against France, Netherlands, and Wales in the group stage.
• The European Championship final is scheduled for 27 July in Basel, Switzerland.
• Several players, like Hannah Hampton and Khiara Keating, are named as goalkeepers.
• Nine players from the previous Euro 2022 squad are not included this time.
• Some players are on a standby list and will stay with the team until the final squad travels to Switzerland.

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Liverpool tell Barcelona Diaz is not for sale

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Liverpool has turned down an offer from Barcelona to discuss a move for their forward, Luis Diaz. Diaz, who joined Liverpool in January 2022, is contracted with the club until 2027 and contributed significantly to their recent success.

Key Facts:

• Liverpool rejected Barcelona's approach to speak to Luis Diaz.
• Luis Diaz is a forward for Liverpool and a Colombian international player.
• He joined Liverpool from Porto in January 2022.
• Diaz's contract with Liverpool lasts until 2027.
• He scored 13 goals and made 7 assists in the league when Liverpool won the title.
• Manchester City and Saudi Arabian clubs have shown interest in Diaz.
• Liverpool is making several player transfers, including signing Jeremie Frimpong and pursuing Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez.
• Speculation arose about Diaz's future after social media posts that seemed like farewell messages.

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Confidence, courage & a club tie - what did we learn from Martin's unveiling?

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Russell Martin, the new head coach of Rangers, gave a 23-minute speech outlining his plans for the team. He expressed his excitement about the role and his determination to succeed, with a focus on winning games quickly and adapting his style as needed.

Key Facts:

• Russell Martin is the new head coach of Rangers football team.
• He gave a public speech that lasted 23 minutes in the Ibrox press room.
• Martin talked about his career and desire for the job, despite previous setbacks.
• He aims to win games quickly, as he expects little patience from fans and the team.
• Martin has experience managing other teams like MK Dons, Swansea, and Southampton.
• He is confident he can apply his past successes to his new role at Rangers.
• Martin plans to use a clear strategy and stick to his core beliefs while being adaptable.
• His focus is on making a strong first impression and achieving success with Rangers.

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Carse considered amputating toe to overcome injury

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Brydon Carse, an England cricketer, experienced severe toe injuries that almost led to considering amputation due to the strain from bowling. He had to miss several months of cricket, including the Champions Trophy, but has since recovered and returned to play in recent matches.

Key Facts:

• Brydon Carse is an England bowler who suffered from severe injuries on his second toe due to bowling.
• The injury caused him to miss the Champions Trophy and other matches for three months.
• Carse considered toe amputation but was advised against it by medical staff for balance reasons.
• As part of his recovery, Carse used new insoles and adapted his footwear instead of surgery.
• The injury originally required several antibiotic treatments until it healed over a rest period.
• Carse, a key player for England, made his Test debut in Pakistan and is now back playing international matches.
• He withdrew from a significant contract in the Indian Premier League due to the injury.
• Phil Salt, another England player, will miss the West Indies T20s for paternity leave, with Jamie Smith stepping in as a replacement.

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Michael Mosley's family say year since his death has been 'hardest of our lives'

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

The family of TV doctor Michael Mosley marked one year since his passing and shared that it has been a difficult time for them. They also announced a new research fund in his memory to continue his work in improving health.

Key Facts:

• Michael Mosley was a TV doctor known for shows on health and diet.
• He passed away at the age of 67 while on holiday in Greece.
• His family shared that the past year has been very hard for them.
• They feel supported by the love and memories shared by others.
• A research fund in Mosley's name was created to improve metabolic health.
• Mosley hosted shows like "Just One Thing" and "Trust Me, I'm A Doctor."
• His cause of death was said to be possibly heatstroke or another unknown cause.
• The family thanked people for their support and shared stories about Mosley.

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No assurances over England number three - Wright

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

England's cricket team has announced its squad for the first Test match against India. Jacob Bethell is included, creating competition for Ollie Pope's position. Jamie Overton also returns to the squad after three years, while Matthew Potts is left out.

Key Facts:

• Jacob Bethell is back in the England squad for the first Test against India.
• Bethell missed the previous Test against Zimbabwe to play in the Indian Premier League.
• Ollie Pope recently scored a century in a match at Trent Bridge.
• England selector Luke Wright did not confirm whether Pope will keep his place in the team.
• Jamie Overton returns to the Test squad for the first time in three years.
• Matthew Potts did not make the squad and has fallen behind Sam Cook as a new-ball bowler.
• Jofra Archer aims to play for Sussex starting 22 June to prepare for possible selection in later Tests against India.

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Reform MP's burka ban call was dumb, says party chair

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Reform UK's MP Sarah Pochin asked the UK Prime Minister about banning the burka, similar to bans in some European countries, despite it not being her party's policy. Zia Yusuf, the party chairman, criticized this move, suggesting it was not a good choice for her first question as an MP.

Key Facts:

• Sarah Pochin recently became an MP for Reform UK after a by-election win.
• She asked the Prime Minister about banning the burka in her first question in the House of Commons.
• The party chairman, Zia Yusuf, called her question "dumb," as it was not an official party stance.
• The burka is a full-body veil worn by some Muslim women, covering the face and body.
• Some European countries like France, Denmark, Belgium, and Austria have bans on veils that conceal the face in public.
• Reform UK's chief whip supported Pochin's question, though a party spokesman noted it was not official party policy.
• Nigel Farage, the party leader, said the question started an important debate about face coverings in public.

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Axed Love Islander says he wants to return to series as a bombshell

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Kyle Ashman was removed from the Love Island show after news surfaced about his arrest related to a funeral fight. Although police released him without charges, he expressed interest in returning to the show as a surprise guest. Professional rugby player Conor Phillips will replace him on the show.

Key Facts:

• Kyle Ashman was removed from Love Island due to reports of an arrest related to a fight.
• The incident occurred at a social club in Stafford in February.
• Police released Kyle without taking further action.
• Kyle stated on Instagram that he is not violent and hopes to rejoin the show.
• ITV has not confirmed whether Kyle could return to the show.
• Conor Phillips, a rugby player, will join the show as Kyle’s replacement.
• Conor Phillips has been playing for the Munster rugby team since 2022.

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How do weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy work?

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

Women using weight-loss injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy are advised to use effective contraception due to potential risks for unborn babies. These drugs help reduce appetite by mimicking hormones and are available through the NHS for people with severe obesity, but private purchase is possible. Trials show Mounjaro may lead to greater weight loss compared to Wegovy, though weight can be regained once treatment stops.

Key Facts:

• Wegovy and Mounjaro are injectable drugs used to help people lose weight.
• They work by mimicking a hormone that helps people feel full after eating.
• Mounjaro affects another hormone that helps with metabolism.
• Women using these drugs should use additional contraception, as the drugs may lower the effectiveness of the pill.
• People generally start losing weight after a few weeks of starting these injections.
• A trial showed that Mounjaro users lost about 20% of their weight, while Wegovy users lost about 14%.
• The NHS offers these drugs to severely obese people with weight-related health issues.
• Once users stop taking the drugs, they may regain the lost weight.

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England include Bethell and Overton in first India Test squad

BBC Top Stories • June 05, 2025 • Home

England has brought back Jacob Bethell for the first Test match against India and included Jamie Overton in the squad due to several injuries among their fast bowlers. Bethell, who missed the last match because of his commitments to the Indian Premier League, might not play in the final lineup, while Jamie Overton returns after his last appearance in 2022.

Key Facts:

• Jacob Bethell was recalled to the England Test squad for the match against India after missing the previous match.
• Jamie Overton has been named in the squad because many fast bowlers are injured.
• Injured players include Gus Atkinson, who has a hamstring injury, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Olly Stone.
• Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse have returned to the team, and Josh Tongue and Sam Cook are also in the squad.
• Jamie Overton last played a Test match at the same ground in 2022.
• Overton is recovering from a broken finger.
• Injuries have affected other young bowlers, Josh Hull and Sonny Baker, keeping them out of upcoming games.
• England's captain, Ben Stokes, decided not to play as he recovers from hamstring surgery.

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