Author: BBC

Co-op narrowly averted being locked out of its computer systems during the cyber attack that saw customer data stolen and store shelves left bare, the hackers who claim responsibility have told the BBC.The revelation could help explain why Co-op has started to recover more quickly than fellow retailer M&S, which had its systems more comprehensively compromised, and is still unable to carry out online orders.Hackers who have claimed responsibility for both attacks told the BBC they tried to infect Co-op with malicious software known as ransomware – but failed when the firm discovered the attack in action.Both Co-op and M&S declined…

Dean Windass speaks to BBC Sport’s Lydia Hayhurst about his alcohol dependency and mental health struggles after retiring from football. Former Hull, Bradford and Middlesbrough striker Dean Windass has been diagnosed with stage two dementia.READ MORE: Dean Windass on his dementia diagnosisIf you’ve been affected by issues raised in this video, there is information and support available on BBC Action Line.

Nick EdserBusiness reporter, BBC NewsGetty ImagesThe UK’s economy grew by more than expected in the first three months of the year, according to the latest official figures.The economy expanded by 0.7% in the January-to-March period, which was stronger than the 0.6% that analysts had forecast.The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said growth was largely driven by the UK services sector, although production also “grew significantly”.The figures mark the period just before the US imposed import tariffs and UK employer taxes increased in April, and analysts warned the strong rate of growth was unlikely to continue.Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the latest…

Gary Lineker has “apologised unreservedly” after being criticised for sharing a social media post about Zionism that included an illustration of a rat.”On Instagram I reposted material which I have since learned contained offensive references,” he said in a statement. “I very much regret these references.”I would never knowingly share anything antisemitic. It goes against everything I believe in.” The Match of the Day presenter said he deleted the post “as soon as I became aware of the issue”.A rat has historically been used as an antisemitic insult, referring to language used by Nazi Germany to characterise Jews.”Whilst I strongly…

Co-op customers should see stocks on shelves start to return to more normal levels this weekend, the company said, after it announced it was switching its online ordering system for suppliers back on after a cyber-attack.The hack resulted in payment problems, widespread shortages of goods in shops, and compromised customer and staff data.The hackers, who use the name DragonForce, also claim to be responsible for a similar attack on Marks and Spencer (M&S) and an attempted hack of Harrods earlier this month.Co-op said it was bringing its systems “gradually back online in a safe and controlled manner.”Earlier this month, cyber…

Julia GregoryReporter BBC SurreyReporting fromSurrey HillsJulia Gregory/BBCYoung people have a chance to meet farm animalsOn a farm nestled in the Surrey Hills, young people are helping herd cows and build pens so they can be wormed.They are spending time on Pondtail Farm in Brockham, near Box Hill, to help boost their mental health as part of the Care Farm project.Katie Daw, the Surrey Hills Society Care Farm co-ordinator, said the scheme was boosting young people’s confidence and wellbeing, and reducing anxiety.Ronnie, aged 17, said helping out on the farm was “like heaven on earth to me”.”People are sleeping better, eating…

Julian O’NeillBBC News NI crime and justice correspondentReporting fromDublin High CourtBrian Lawless/PA WireGerry Adams pictured outside the High Court in Dublin last weekThe BBC has opened its defence in a libel case brought by Gerry Adams, who claims he was defamed in a broadcast and article which alleged he sanctioned the murder of a British agent.Eoin McCullough SC, acting for the broadcaster, told the High Court in Dublin the allegation had been “thoroughly investigated”.He also stated it would have been “irresponsible” for the information to be ignored.Mr Adams denies any involvement in the 2006 killing of Denis Donaldson – who…

Michael Race & Joe TidyBusiness reporter & Cyber correspondent, BBC NewsGetty ImagesMarks & Spencer has revealed that some personal customer data has been stolen in the recent cyber attack, which could include contact details and dates of birth.The High Street giant said the personal information taken could also include online order histories, but added the data theft did not include useable payment or card details, or any account passwords.M&S was hit by the cyber attack three weeks ago and is struggling to get services back to normal, with online orders still suspended.The retailer said customers would be prompted to reset…

President Donald Trump has slashed the tariff on small parcels sent from mainland China and Hong Kong to the US, just hours after the world’s two biggest economies said they would cut levies on each other’s goods for 90 days.The new tariffs on small packages worth up to $800 (£606) have been cut from 120% to 54%, according to a White House statement.The flat fee per item will remain at $100 for shipments sent after 2 May, while a $200 charge due to apply from 1 June has been cancelled.Chinese online retail giants Shein and Temu had previously relied on…

Getty ImagesA disproportionate number of children referred to NHS excess weight clinics in England are from the most deprived areas, and a significant number are neurodivergent or have other health conditions, a study has found.Some have a body mass index (BMI) over 50, with 40 deemed to be severely obese.Nearly 4,800 under-18s have been referred to the clinics since they were set up in 2021, according to research carried out by Leeds Beckett, Sheffield Hallam, Leeds and Bristol universities and presented at the European Congress on Obesity.The clinics provide mental health support and care for other underlying conditions, as well…