Monday, 8 December 2025
What next for the teasing headline?
Newspaper headlines have always been written to tease. The idea was to persuade the reader to pick up a newspaper or turn to the article underneath. But in the digital world have we teased too far? Have we put algorithms ahead of the reader? The Pope, who has chastised the media over 'degrading clickbait’, is not the only one who thinks so. But now things are changing again. Some algorithms are prioritising quality, AI summaries mean people don’t have to click, readers are resisting the tease and more and more titles are heading towards a subscription model. So, what’s the next stage in the ever-evolving headline journey? I asked senior editors at the digital coal face. Here is my article in InPublishing magazine on what they said.
Friday, 5 December 2025
Have a crack at the newsquiz
The top solo scorer in last week’s newsquiz was Tim (still totally unremarkable) with 23, ahead of Janet Boyle on 22, Robert Rea and George Mann on 20, Toby Brown on 18 and the Rev Leon on 16. The top team was Tim Humphrey and the LBC newsroom with 24. King’s Head drinkers Peter and Stacey scored 23, the Broad Oak Boozers with Thom, Danny, Tim, Craig, George, Anna and Dale 22, Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe 19 and Maura and Phil Parsons 17. Here is this week's newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Give it a go and let me know your score.
Today's front pages
1. Richard Hughes resigned as chairman of which organisation, saying he took 'full responsibility’ for the 'worst failure’ in its 15-year history?
2. Justice Secretary David Lammy said jury trials would be scrapped in England and Wales for crimes that carry a likely sentence of less than how many years?
3. Which organisation did Health Secretary Wes Streeting call ‘moaning Minnies’ and 'juvenile delinquents’?
4. Labour MP Tulip Siddiq was sentenced, in her absence, to how many years in jail for corruption in Bangladesh?
5. The Independent Office for Police Conduct’s report into what incident said that police had been guilty of 'deep complacency', 'fundamental failure' and a 'concerted effort’ to blame others?
6. King Charles hosted the president of which country, on a state visit for the first time in 27 years, at a banquet at Windsor Castle?
7. An inquiry concluded that who was 'morally responsible' for the death of Salisbury mother Dawn Sturgess in 2018?
8. Four people, including an eight-year-old child, were killed, and 11 others were wounded by a gunman, at what gathering in Stockton, California?
9. NHS figures showed that patients in hospital suffering from what had hit a record high in England over the last week?
10. A major incident was declared, 200 houses were evacuated and two Polish nationals were arrested on suspicion of explosives offences in which English city?
11. Thousands of homes were without water, and schools and businesses were forced to close, after South East Water added the wrong chemicals to the tap water supply in and around which town?
12. At its first conference, held in Liverpool, the left-wing political party founded by Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana voted to call itself what?
13. Which playwright, who died aged 88, became famous in 1967 for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, won an Oscar for Shakespeare in Love and was knighted in 1997?
14. Which organisation announced with 'sincere regret’ it would no longer offer membership to transgender women?
15. Prada acquired which other fashion brand for just over £1billion?
16. Who was fined £1,653 after admitting driving without due care and attention when her car collided with a moped, injuring the rider, in Richmond, South London?
17. Footballer Billy Bonds, who died aged 79, was the longest-serving player, making 799 appearances, for which football club?
18. What item, decorated with 4,500 diamonds, that once belonged to Russia's imperial family, sold for a record £22.9million in an auction at Christie's in London?
19. Who collapsed live on ITV while presenting England women's friendly against Ghana in Southampton?
20. After it was announced that Israel would take part in next year’s Eurovison which country did NOT say it would withdraw in protest? a) Malta b) the Netherlands c) Spain d) Ireland
21. Which two-word phrase won the title of Oxford University Press's phrase of the year?
22. What animal was Buddy, who escaped from Santa's Enchanted Forest in Formby, Merseyside, prompting armed police, the coastguard and Royal Marines being called in to track him down?
23. The Duke of Sussex appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and made a joke with the punchline: 'Really? I hear you elected a __’. What is the missing word?
24. In the second Ashes Test in Brisbane what did Joe Root do for the first time on Australian soil?
25. Kelly Brook, Aitch and Angry Ginge caused controversy in I’m A Celebrity by eating what instead of sharing them with the camp?
21. Which two-word phrase won the title of Oxford University Press's phrase of the year?
22. What animal was Buddy, who escaped from Santa's Enchanted Forest in Formby, Merseyside, prompting armed police, the coastguard and Royal Marines being called in to track him down?
23. The Duke of Sussex appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and made a joke with the punchline: 'Really? I hear you elected a __’. What is the missing word?
24. In the second Ashes Test in Brisbane what did Joe Root do for the first time on Australian soil?
25. Kelly Brook, Aitch and Angry Ginge caused controversy in I’m A Celebrity by eating what instead of sharing them with the camp?
Answers here
Friday, 28 November 2025
It's time to tackle the newsquiz
The top scorer in last week’s newsquiz was the Rev Leon with 22.5, just ahead of George Mann on 22, Janet Boyle on 21 and Robert Rea on 19. The top teams were the Broad Oak Boozers with Rosie, Tim, Craig, Danny and Thom and the Barnard Castle FOC with Bill, Trevor, Carole, Our Peter and Jackie who both scored 20. The King’s Head drinkers Peter, Stacey and Kevin scored 19.5 and Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe 19. Here is this week’s newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Give it a go and let me know your score.
1. In her Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that income tax thresholds would be frozen until when?
2. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch responded to the Chancellor's statement by saying: 'This is a Budget for __ Street and you’re going to pay for it.’ What is the missing word?
3. Before the Budget, the Government announced that the minimum hourly rate for over-21s would rise by 50p to how much an hour? a) £12.21 b) £12.71 c) £13.21 d) £13.71
4. Days before the Budget, the Government announced that what would be frozen next year - until 2027 - for the first time in 30 years?
5. The Office for Budget Responsibility said an investigation into what would be carried out ‘swiftly' to provide answers by Monday?
6. The Government u-turned on its manifesto commitment to offer all workers the right to claim what from their first day in a job?
7. Justice Secretary David Lammy proposed scrapping what in an effort to reduce the backlog of cases in the courts?
8. US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social about his peace plan to end the war with Russia, saying the 'Ukraine 'leadership' has expressed zero __ for our efforts.’ What is the missing word?
9. US President Donald Trump called for re-examination of every immigrant from which country after the shooting of two national guards in Washington?
10. On the second day of his trial, Paul Doyle changed his plea to admit how many charges related to ploughing his car into supporters at Liverpool FC's victory parade?
11. At least 128 people were killed and hundreds more are still missing in a fire at high-rise towers where?
12. Twenty people who attended Dulwich College in London alleged that who had made racist and antisemitic remarks to them 49 years ago.
13. Joan Templeman, who died aged 80, was married to which businessman for 36 years?
14. What is the name of the reggae singer, who died aged 81, who had top ten hits in the 1960s with Wonderful World Beautiful People and Wild World?
15. Pope Leo arrived in which country on his first foreign visit since his inauguration?
16. Former Prime Minister Sir David Cameron revealed he had been treated for what type of cancer?
17. Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas said she almost died after choking on what before Saturday's live show in Blackpool?
18. Two 15-year-olds, Noah Jones and Macy Neyland, launched a legal challenge against the Australian government’s ban on what?
19. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson was suspended from the Australian parliament after wearing what in the chamber?
20. Researchers at Cambridge University suggested that the brain goes through five phases and that adolescence ends and adulthood starts at what age?
21. Which English football club said it would be 'formally raising concerns with Uefa, Olympique de Marseille and French police’ after pepper spray, batons and shields were used to subdue its fans?
22. Aristocrat Sir Benjamin Slade, 79, reportedly listed requirements for a new wife. Which of these was not on his list? a) Be at least 20 years younger than him b) Not be a Scorpio c) Not read the Daily Mail d) Not be Scottish.
23. How did Gobble and Waddle escape death?
24. What happened in the Ashes in Perth for the first time in 104 years?
25. I’m A Celebrity contestants Alex Scott and Shona McGarty were admonished for sneaking contraband into camp. What did they have? Half a point for each.
Today's front pages
1. In her Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that income tax thresholds would be frozen until when?
2. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch responded to the Chancellor's statement by saying: 'This is a Budget for __ Street and you’re going to pay for it.’ What is the missing word?
3. Before the Budget, the Government announced that the minimum hourly rate for over-21s would rise by 50p to how much an hour? a) £12.21 b) £12.71 c) £13.21 d) £13.71
4. Days before the Budget, the Government announced that what would be frozen next year - until 2027 - for the first time in 30 years?
5. The Office for Budget Responsibility said an investigation into what would be carried out ‘swiftly' to provide answers by Monday?
6. The Government u-turned on its manifesto commitment to offer all workers the right to claim what from their first day in a job?
7. Justice Secretary David Lammy proposed scrapping what in an effort to reduce the backlog of cases in the courts?
8. US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social about his peace plan to end the war with Russia, saying the 'Ukraine 'leadership' has expressed zero __ for our efforts.’ What is the missing word?
9. US President Donald Trump called for re-examination of every immigrant from which country after the shooting of two national guards in Washington?
10. On the second day of his trial, Paul Doyle changed his plea to admit how many charges related to ploughing his car into supporters at Liverpool FC's victory parade?
11. At least 128 people were killed and hundreds more are still missing in a fire at high-rise towers where?
12. Twenty people who attended Dulwich College in London alleged that who had made racist and antisemitic remarks to them 49 years ago.
13. Joan Templeman, who died aged 80, was married to which businessman for 36 years?
14. What is the name of the reggae singer, who died aged 81, who had top ten hits in the 1960s with Wonderful World Beautiful People and Wild World?
15. Pope Leo arrived in which country on his first foreign visit since his inauguration?
16. Former Prime Minister Sir David Cameron revealed he had been treated for what type of cancer?
17. Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas said she almost died after choking on what before Saturday's live show in Blackpool?
18. Two 15-year-olds, Noah Jones and Macy Neyland, launched a legal challenge against the Australian government’s ban on what?
19. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson was suspended from the Australian parliament after wearing what in the chamber?
20. Researchers at Cambridge University suggested that the brain goes through five phases and that adolescence ends and adulthood starts at what age?
21. Which English football club said it would be 'formally raising concerns with Uefa, Olympique de Marseille and French police’ after pepper spray, batons and shields were used to subdue its fans?
22. Aristocrat Sir Benjamin Slade, 79, reportedly listed requirements for a new wife. Which of these was not on his list? a) Be at least 20 years younger than him b) Not be a Scorpio c) Not read the Daily Mail d) Not be Scottish.
23. How did Gobble and Waddle escape death?
24. What happened in the Ashes in Perth for the first time in 104 years?
25. I’m A Celebrity contestants Alex Scott and Shona McGarty were admonished for sneaking contraband into camp. What did they have? Half a point for each.
Answers here
Friday, 21 November 2025
Have a crack at the newsquiz
The top scorers in last week’s newsquiz were Tim (still totally unremarkable) and George Mann with 23. Tim Humphrey and Janet Boyle scored 22, Robert Rea and Toby Brown 20 and the Rev Leon 16. The top teams were the Broad Oak Boozers including Tim, Craig, Danny and Thom and Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe on 19, ahead of the Barnard Castle FOC with Our Peter, Jackie, Trevor and Carole and Bill’s Scratch Team on 18. Here is this week’s newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Why not give it a go and let me know your score.
1. The Covid-19 Inquiry concluded that how many lives could have been saved if a national shutdown had been imposed one week earlier?
2. The Covid-19 Inquiry report singled out who for criticism, suggesting he contributed to a 'culture of fear' that 'poisoned the atmosphere’?
3. The US House of Representatives voted to release the Jeffrey Epstein documents with 427 in favour and how many against?
4. US President Donald Trump pointed at Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey on Air Force One and said 'quiet, quiet, __' after she asked about the Jeffrey Epstein files. What is the missing insult?
5. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced changes to the asylum system, citing which European country where 'refugee status is temporary and they provide safety until it is possible for a refugee to return home’?
6. Labour MP Clive Lewis offered to give up his seat in Norwich South to who?
7. The Government announced plans to make it illegal for what to be resold for more than their original cost?
8. US President Donald Trump welcomed the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to the White House and defended him over the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist who worked for which publication?
9. What is the name of the Russian ’spy ship’ whose crew targeted RAF pilots with lasers?
10. MPs were warned they faced 'a covert and calculated' attempt to recruit parliamentarians through profiles connected to the Chinese intelligence service which were on what website?
11. The overall inflation rate fell to 3.6 per cent in the year to October, the slowest pace for four months, but the inflation rate for what went up to 4.9 per cent?
12. Ex-leader of Reform UK in Wales, Nathan Gill, was jailed for how long for taking bribes to give pro-Russian speeches and TV appearances?
Today's front pages
1. The Covid-19 Inquiry concluded that how many lives could have been saved if a national shutdown had been imposed one week earlier?
2. The Covid-19 Inquiry report singled out who for criticism, suggesting he contributed to a 'culture of fear' that 'poisoned the atmosphere’?
3. The US House of Representatives voted to release the Jeffrey Epstein documents with 427 in favour and how many against?
4. US President Donald Trump pointed at Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey on Air Force One and said 'quiet, quiet, __' after she asked about the Jeffrey Epstein files. What is the missing insult?
5. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced changes to the asylum system, citing which European country where 'refugee status is temporary and they provide safety until it is possible for a refugee to return home’?
6. Labour MP Clive Lewis offered to give up his seat in Norwich South to who?
7. The Government announced plans to make it illegal for what to be resold for more than their original cost?
8. US President Donald Trump welcomed the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to the White House and defended him over the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a journalist who worked for which publication?
9. What is the name of the Russian ’spy ship’ whose crew targeted RAF pilots with lasers?
10. MPs were warned they faced 'a covert and calculated' attempt to recruit parliamentarians through profiles connected to the Chinese intelligence service which were on what website?
11. The overall inflation rate fell to 3.6 per cent in the year to October, the slowest pace for four months, but the inflation rate for what went up to 4.9 per cent?
12. Ex-leader of Reform UK in Wales, Nathan Gill, was jailed for how long for taking bribes to give pro-Russian speeches and TV appearances?
13. Gambling giant Sky Bet announced it had relocated its headquarters to which country - a move that will cut its UK tax bill by tens of millions of pounds?
14. Hertfordshire Police paid how much in damages for wrongly arresting a couple who had made complaints about their daughter's primary school on a WhatsApp group chat?
15. Disgraced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s name was wiped from four plaques which had been unveiled when he had previously visited where?
16. The 78-year-old former prime minister of which country was sentenced to death after she was guilty of ordering lethal force on a student-led uprising?
17. A children’s book called Flora And Fern: Kindness Along The Way, written by who, was withdrawn from sale days before it was due to be published?
18. Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, who died aged 63, was bass guitarist with which two rock bands? Half a point for each.
19. US rapper Eminem took legal action against an Australian beachwear company called what, saying its name was too similar to his brand?
14. Hertfordshire Police paid how much in damages for wrongly arresting a couple who had made complaints about their daughter's primary school on a WhatsApp group chat?
15. Disgraced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s name was wiped from four plaques which had been unveiled when he had previously visited where?
16. The 78-year-old former prime minister of which country was sentenced to death after she was guilty of ordering lethal force on a student-led uprising?
17. A children’s book called Flora And Fern: Kindness Along The Way, written by who, was withdrawn from sale days before it was due to be published?
18. Gary 'Mani' Mounfield, who died aged 63, was bass guitarist with which two rock bands? Half a point for each.
19. US rapper Eminem took legal action against an Australian beachwear company called what, saying its name was too similar to his brand?
20. A senior production member alleged that, when a worker collapsed on set, which TV presenter said 'package him up' and 'send him back like they do on Amazon Prime’?
21. Scotland’s men qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998 by beating which team 4-2?
22. Before the Ashes began, Australian captain Steve Smith mocked former England cricketer Monty Panesar for his terrible performance at what?
23. A 35-year-old sporting rivalry involving which two families came to an end at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with the victor saying: 'It's done and finished. It's over. This ends here.’ Half a point for each family name.
24. A life-size bronze statue, wearing a creased miniskirt, gaping cardigan and clutching a diary and a pen, was unveiled in Leicester Square as a tribute to which comedy character?
25. What are the names of the two late arrivals who turned up as chief explorers on ITV's I’m a Celebrity yesterday? Half a point for each.
21. Scotland’s men qualified for the World Cup finals for the first time since 1998 by beating which team 4-2?
22. Before the Ashes began, Australian captain Steve Smith mocked former England cricketer Monty Panesar for his terrible performance at what?
23. A 35-year-old sporting rivalry involving which two families came to an end at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with the victor saying: 'It's done and finished. It's over. This ends here.’ Half a point for each family name.
24. A life-size bronze statue, wearing a creased miniskirt, gaping cardigan and clutching a diary and a pen, was unveiled in Leicester Square as a tribute to which comedy character?
25. What are the names of the two late arrivals who turned up as chief explorers on ITV's I’m a Celebrity yesterday? Half a point for each.
Answers here
Friday, 14 November 2025
Time to tackle the newsquiz
There were some cracking scores in last week’s newsquiz. The top solo quizzers - George Mann, Tim (still totally unremarkable) and Peta Steel - all scored 24. Janet Boyle scored 21, the Rev Leon 20, Sarah Terry 19 and Ian McCulloch 18. The top teams were the Barnard Castle FOC, featuring Bill, Our Peter, Jackie, Trevor and Carole and Tim Humphrey and son Robert who scored 23. Maura and Phil Parsons and King’s Head drinkers Peter and Stacey both scored 20, the Broad Oak Boozers 19 and Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe 18. Here is this week’s newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Give it a go and let me know your score.
Today's front pages
1. US President Donald Trump said he would sue the BBC after Panorama spliced a clip of a 2021 speech which suggested he told a crowd: 'We’re going to walk down to the Capitol and I’ll be there with you, and we __. We __ like hell.’ What is the missing word?
2. After the BBC’s apology for the Panorama editing of the Trump speech, it emerged that which second programme also spliced footage?
3. What is the name of the BBC News CEO who resigned, with director general Tim Davie, following criticism of the edited Panorama documentary?
4. Health Secretary Wes Streeting denied suggestions he was seeking to challenge for the Labour party leadership and said his accusers had been watching too much of what TV programme?
5. What is the name of the Prime Minister's chief of staff who was initially blamed for briefings against cabinet ministers?
6. Which organisation did Health Secretary Wes Streeting say was 'increasingly behaving in cartel-like behaviour’ and was in a 'morally reprehensible position’?
7. More than 20,000 files, some mentioning US President Donald Trump, were obtained from whose estate and released by US lawmakers?
3. What is the name of the BBC News CEO who resigned, with director general Tim Davie, following criticism of the edited Panorama documentary?
4. Health Secretary Wes Streeting denied suggestions he was seeking to challenge for the Labour party leadership and said his accusers had been watching too much of what TV programme?
5. What is the name of the Prime Minister's chief of staff who was initially blamed for briefings against cabinet ministers?
6. Which organisation did Health Secretary Wes Streeting say was 'increasingly behaving in cartel-like behaviour’ and was in a 'morally reprehensible position’?
7. More than 20,000 files, some mentioning US President Donald Trump, were obtained from whose estate and released by US lawmakers?
8. According to figures from the Ministry of Justice how many prisoners were freed by mistake between April and October this year?
9. At 11am on Armistice Day, Tuesday November 11, which one of these did not happen? a) The Princess of Wales laid a wreath in Staffordshire b) Queen Camilla laid a wreath at Paddington Station c) the Princess Royal laid a wreath in Brisbane, Australia d) King Charles laid a wreath at the Cenotaph.
10. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced that the Army will be used to reduce what?
11. According to an internal survey, two-thirds of women working as what experienced sexualised behaviour - from wolf-whistles and dirty jokes to touching and unwanted sexual activity - in the past year?
12. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said she was 'appalled' and was 'holding Southern Water to account' for millions of what that washed up on Camber Sands in East Sussex?
13. Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared in court accused of murder after a 24-year-old woman was stabbed in the neck in which English city centre?
14. Who was found guilty of six counts of sending 'grossly offensive' social media posts aimed at broadcaster Jeremy Vine and television pundits Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko?
15. TV presenter Davina McCall posted a video on Instagram revealing she had undergone surgery for what kind of cancer’?
16. The Eiffel Tower was lit in the colours of the French flag on Thursday as part of a day of commemoration marking the tenth anniversary of what?
17. Qian Zhimin was jailed for 11 years and 8 months at Southwark Crown Court for trying to launder more than 60,000 what, worth billions of pounds?
18. Quentin Willson, who died aged 68, was the co-host of which BBC programme between 1991 and 2001?
9. At 11am on Armistice Day, Tuesday November 11, which one of these did not happen? a) The Princess of Wales laid a wreath in Staffordshire b) Queen Camilla laid a wreath at Paddington Station c) the Princess Royal laid a wreath in Brisbane, Australia d) King Charles laid a wreath at the Cenotaph.
10. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced that the Army will be used to reduce what?
11. According to an internal survey, two-thirds of women working as what experienced sexualised behaviour - from wolf-whistles and dirty jokes to touching and unwanted sexual activity - in the past year?
12. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said she was 'appalled' and was 'holding Southern Water to account' for millions of what that washed up on Camber Sands in East Sussex?
13. Djeison Rafael, 21, appeared in court accused of murder after a 24-year-old woman was stabbed in the neck in which English city centre?
14. Who was found guilty of six counts of sending 'grossly offensive' social media posts aimed at broadcaster Jeremy Vine and television pundits Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko?
15. TV presenter Davina McCall posted a video on Instagram revealing she had undergone surgery for what kind of cancer’?
16. The Eiffel Tower was lit in the colours of the French flag on Thursday as part of a day of commemoration marking the tenth anniversary of what?
17. Qian Zhimin was jailed for 11 years and 8 months at Southwark Crown Court for trying to launder more than 60,000 what, worth billions of pounds?
18. Quentin Willson, who died aged 68, was the co-host of which BBC programme between 1991 and 2001?
19. Which Olympian’s older brother was arrested over allegations he sent threats to him during his stag-do in Budapest?
20. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was freed from jail after serving how long of his five-year sentence?
21. A man was charged with being a public nuisance after jumping over a barricade and grabbing which singer at the premiere for Wicked: For Good in Singapore?
20. Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was freed from jail after serving how long of his five-year sentence?
21. A man was charged with being a public nuisance after jumping over a barricade and grabbing which singer at the premiere for Wicked: For Good in Singapore?
22. England kept up their 100 per cent World Cup qualifying record with a 2-0 victory against Serbia with goals by players from which club?
23. Who donated his £25,000 Mercury Prize winnings to the Music Venue Trust (MVT), which supports grassroots music?
23. Who donated his £25,000 Mercury Prize winnings to the Music Venue Trust (MVT), which supports grassroots music?
24. ITV bosses announced a rule change that means contestants on I’m A Celebrity will now be restricted to how many Bushtucker trials in a row?
25. Who put on a Pudsey Bear backpack on Monday and set off to cover 135 miles on foot across four counties in five days - the equivalent of five marathons?
25. Who put on a Pudsey Bear backpack on Monday and set off to cover 135 miles on foot across four counties in five days - the equivalent of five marathons?
Answers here
Friday, 7 November 2025
Have a crack at the newsquiz
The top solo scorer in last week’s newsquiz was Tim (still totally unremarkable) with 23, just ahead of Tim Humphrey on 22, George Mann on 21.5, Janet Boyle on 19.5 and Robert Rea on 18. The top teams were the Gainford Ghouls and Maura and Phil Parsons who both scored 23.5. The Broad Oak Boozers, featuring Thom, Danny, Tim and Craig, scored 23, Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe with Ben and Bella 22, Nick Turner and Mark Walton 18.5 and Trevor and Carole in Krakow 18. Here is this week's newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week's news. Give it a go and let me know your score.
1. A train from Doncaster to London made an unscheduled stop at which station so that armed police and paramedics could treat 11 people who had been stabbed?
2. Two prisoners were released by mistake from which prison?
3. Zohran Mamdani became New York City's first Muslim mayor and the youngest person in over a century to lead the city. How old is he?
4. Andrew Mountbatten Windsor received a letter from who, requesting an interview in connection with his 'long-standing friendship' with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein?
5. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage predicted that 'economic collapse' would force Prime Minister Keir Starmer to do what?
6. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer for being 'the only person from a serious country' to attend what?
7. Which former White House chief of staff, defence secretary and vice-president died aged 84?
8. Which BBC programme was accused of selectively editing a Donald Trump speech to make it appear that he encouraged the US Capitol attack?
9. At Leicester Crown Court Julia Wandelt, 24, was found guilty of harassing who?
10. Which country declared a state of emergency after typhoon Kalmaegi left at least 188 dead?
11. Pregnant Bella Culley, 19, who faced a 20-year sentence, arrived back in Teesside after being freed from prison in which country?
12. The BBC upheld a complaint against newsreader Martine Croxall after she changed what two-word term and raised her eyebrows during a news broadcast?
13. A worker was killed when a medieval tower collapsed in which European city?
14. ITV said it was in ‘preliminary' discussions to sell its broadcasting business to which company for £1.6billion?
15. Four passengers were injured when a Glasgow to London train derailed at 80mph, after hitting a landslip in which county?
16. At least 12 people were killed after a cargo plane, owned by which supply chain company, crashed during take off from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky?
17. A mayor was shot dead in front of dozens of people during Day Of The Dead festivities in which country?
Today's front pages
1. A train from Doncaster to London made an unscheduled stop at which station so that armed police and paramedics could treat 11 people who had been stabbed?
2. Two prisoners were released by mistake from which prison?
3. Zohran Mamdani became New York City's first Muslim mayor and the youngest person in over a century to lead the city. How old is he?
4. Andrew Mountbatten Windsor received a letter from who, requesting an interview in connection with his 'long-standing friendship' with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein?
5. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage predicted that 'economic collapse' would force Prime Minister Keir Starmer to do what?
6. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer for being 'the only person from a serious country' to attend what?
7. Which former White House chief of staff, defence secretary and vice-president died aged 84?
8. Which BBC programme was accused of selectively editing a Donald Trump speech to make it appear that he encouraged the US Capitol attack?
9. At Leicester Crown Court Julia Wandelt, 24, was found guilty of harassing who?
10. Which country declared a state of emergency after typhoon Kalmaegi left at least 188 dead?
11. Pregnant Bella Culley, 19, who faced a 20-year sentence, arrived back in Teesside after being freed from prison in which country?
12. The BBC upheld a complaint against newsreader Martine Croxall after she changed what two-word term and raised her eyebrows during a news broadcast?
13. A worker was killed when a medieval tower collapsed in which European city?
14. ITV said it was in ‘preliminary' discussions to sell its broadcasting business to which company for £1.6billion?
15. Four passengers were injured when a Glasgow to London train derailed at 80mph, after hitting a landslip in which county?
16. At least 12 people were killed after a cargo plane, owned by which supply chain company, crashed during take off from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky?
17. A mayor was shot dead in front of dozens of people during Day Of The Dead festivities in which country?
18. Which TV presenter posted on social media: ‘The hate, vitriol and racism aimed at me because of my personal decision not to wear a poppy *on air* has begun again?’
19. Pauline Collins, who died aged 85, was best known for playing the title role in which 1989 film that earned her a best actress Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win?
20. Who vowed to use his knighthood 'for the good of the UK’ after he received the honour from King Charles?
21. Which Premier League team sacked their head coach after failing to win a game all season?
22. Eleven people were arrested after hundreds of protestors gathered before Aston Villa's game against which team on Thursday?
23. Whose autobiography All In caused a ‘furore’ in the world of sport?
24. Who came out of acting retirement, after eight years, for a role in a Hollywood movie called Close Personal Friends?
25. Alan Carr won Celebrity Traitors and took a prize fund of how much for the children’s cancer charity Neuroblastoma UK?
19. Pauline Collins, who died aged 85, was best known for playing the title role in which 1989 film that earned her a best actress Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win?
20. Who vowed to use his knighthood 'for the good of the UK’ after he received the honour from King Charles?
21. Which Premier League team sacked their head coach after failing to win a game all season?
22. Eleven people were arrested after hundreds of protestors gathered before Aston Villa's game against which team on Thursday?
23. Whose autobiography All In caused a ‘furore’ in the world of sport?
24. Who came out of acting retirement, after eight years, for a role in a Hollywood movie called Close Personal Friends?
25. Alan Carr won Celebrity Traitors and took a prize fund of how much for the children’s cancer charity Neuroblastoma UK?
Answers here
Friday, 31 October 2025
Time to tackle the newsquiz
There were some very impressive scores in last week’s newsquiz. The top solo scorers were Tim Humphreys and Tim (still totally unremarkable) with 24, just ahead of George Mann and Janet Boyle on 23. Sam Lawley scored 21, Robert Rea 18, the Rev Leon and Ian McCulloch 17 and Janet Escapades 16. The top team was the Barnard Castle FOC (featuring Bill, Sue, Trevor, Carole, Brendan, Lisa George and Craig) with 23, ahead of Adam Batstone and Lucy Thorpe on 21, Broad Oak Boozers (featuring Danny, Thom, Craig and Tim) on 20 and Maura and Phil Parsons on 18. Here is this week’s newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Give it a go and let me know your score.
1. Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves after she apologised for not having a licence to do what?
Today's front pages
1. Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves after she apologised for not having a licence to do what?
2. King Charles announced that Prince Andrew would be stripped of his titles and will be known as Andrew __ Windsor. What is the middle name?
3. It was revealed that Prince Andrew hosted Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and which other sex offender at Royal Lodge?
4. Hurricane Melissa killed at least 19 people in Jamaica and at least 30 in which other country?
5. Who was elected as Labour's deputy leader following Angela Rayner's resignation?
6. Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a deal to sell 20 fighter jets to which country for £8billion, describing it as a 'win for British workers, a win for our defence industry, and a win for Nato security’?
7. Under plans drawn up by ministers, around 900 asylum seekers are due to be housed in the Cameron Barracks in which Scottish city and a training camp in which East Sussex town? Half a point for each.
8. What is the name of the Bill that received Royal Ascent, which Housing Secretary Steve Reed described as 'the biggest leap forward in a generation'?
9. Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin came under fire for saying: 'It drives me mad when I see __ full of black people, full of Asian people.’ What is the missing word?
10. The Trump administration said it would limit the number of refugees admitted to the US to 7,500 and give priority to white people from which country?
11. Migrant Hadush Kebatu was arrested in north London following a manhunt after being mistakenly released from a prison in which city?
3. It was revealed that Prince Andrew hosted Jeffrey Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and which other sex offender at Royal Lodge?
4. Hurricane Melissa killed at least 19 people in Jamaica and at least 30 in which other country?
5. Who was elected as Labour's deputy leader following Angela Rayner's resignation?
6. Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a deal to sell 20 fighter jets to which country for £8billion, describing it as a 'win for British workers, a win for our defence industry, and a win for Nato security’?
7. Under plans drawn up by ministers, around 900 asylum seekers are due to be housed in the Cameron Barracks in which Scottish city and a training camp in which East Sussex town? Half a point for each.
8. What is the name of the Bill that received Royal Ascent, which Housing Secretary Steve Reed described as 'the biggest leap forward in a generation'?
9. Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin came under fire for saying: 'It drives me mad when I see __ full of black people, full of Asian people.’ What is the missing word?
10. The Trump administration said it would limit the number of refugees admitted to the US to 7,500 and give priority to white people from which country?
11. Migrant Hadush Kebatu was arrested in north London following a manhunt after being mistakenly released from a prison in which city?
12. Hadush Kebatu, who was flown to Ethiopia after being mistakenly released from prison, was given how much to speed up his deportation from the UK?
13. Asylum seeker Haybe Cabdiraxmaan Nur, who stabbed a man to death inside what high street building in Derby, was jailed for life?
14. The daughters of Karen McGonigal from Salford, who died aged 53, appeared on TV to beg other people not to do what?
15. A ruling by the rail regulator means that which company became a step closer to challenging Eurostar's monopoly on taking passengers across the Channel?
16. How were a 70-year-old man killed and a ten-year-old boy injured in Bentley, near Doncaster?
17. Criticism from drivers has prompted the Government to take a closer look at the design of what?
18. Catherine Connolly 68, won a landslide victory to become the tenth what?
19. Eight men and two women went are on trial in Paris for online harassment, accused of making malicious comments about who?
20. University academic Richard Taylor is to receive 'damages' after a court ruling he was defamed in the film The Lost King about Richard III's remains, written by which comedian?
21. The NHS made what available for free across pharmacies in England, which health secretary Wes Streeting described as 'the biggest change’ since the 60s?
22. Actress Prunella Scales who died aged 93, was best known for playing Basil Fawlty's wife who had what first name in the comedy series Fawlty Towers?
23. Which football club was placed into administration by owner Dejphon Chansiri and deducted 12 points?
24. The football manager of which club resigned and was accused of being ‘divisive, misleading and self-serving’?
25. Who received a knighthood from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle for services to cricket?
13. Asylum seeker Haybe Cabdiraxmaan Nur, who stabbed a man to death inside what high street building in Derby, was jailed for life?
14. The daughters of Karen McGonigal from Salford, who died aged 53, appeared on TV to beg other people not to do what?
15. A ruling by the rail regulator means that which company became a step closer to challenging Eurostar's monopoly on taking passengers across the Channel?
16. How were a 70-year-old man killed and a ten-year-old boy injured in Bentley, near Doncaster?
17. Criticism from drivers has prompted the Government to take a closer look at the design of what?
18. Catherine Connolly 68, won a landslide victory to become the tenth what?
19. Eight men and two women went are on trial in Paris for online harassment, accused of making malicious comments about who?
20. University academic Richard Taylor is to receive 'damages' after a court ruling he was defamed in the film The Lost King about Richard III's remains, written by which comedian?
21. The NHS made what available for free across pharmacies in England, which health secretary Wes Streeting described as 'the biggest change’ since the 60s?
22. Actress Prunella Scales who died aged 93, was best known for playing Basil Fawlty's wife who had what first name in the comedy series Fawlty Towers?
23. Which football club was placed into administration by owner Dejphon Chansiri and deducted 12 points?
24. The football manager of which club resigned and was accused of being ‘divisive, misleading and self-serving’?
25. Who received a knighthood from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle for services to cricket?
Answers here
Friday, 24 October 2025
Have a crack at the newsquiz
The top solo scorers in last week’s newsquiz were Janet Boyle, the Rev Leon and Robert Rea all with 20. Tim (still totally unremarkable) scored 19.
The top team was the Barnard Castle FOC including Our Peter, Jackie, Bill, Trev and Carole also with 20. Maura and Phil Parsons, the Broad Oak Boozers and the Little Choir of Teesdale all scored 19 and Adam Batstone and the Spanish golfers scored 17. Here is this week's newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Why not give it a go and let me know your score?
1. What is the name of the 30-room residence in Windsor where Prince Andrew lives and where he has not paid rent for 20 years?
2. In a statement released through Buckingham Palace, Prince Andrew agreed to give up his titles. Which of these is not one of his titles? a) Duke of York b) Royal Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter c) Lord Windsor d) the Earl of Inverness.
3. King Charles made history when he became the first British monarch in 500 years to do what?
4. Labour lost its seat in Caerphilly Senedd, for the first time in 100 years, when which party won Thursday's by-election?
5. How many women have quit the survivors panel in the grooming gangs inquiry due to concerns it was being diluted and that their voices was being silenced?
6. Who told the Covid inquiry that children had paid a 'huge price' during the pandemic, saying the loss of education, exams and the disappointment, anger, frustration had been 'a disaster’?
7. A judge in Belfast found Soldier F not guilty of murdering two people, and of five counts of attempted murder, on Bloody Sunday in Londonderry in which year?
8. In an effort to pressure Moscow to negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine, the US announced new sanctions targeting two of Russia's largest companies that produce what?
9. What was the name of the protests, against Donald Trump’s administration, that brought millions to the streets across all 50 US states on Saturday?
10. The East Wing of the White House was demolished to make way for what US President described as ‘the most beautiful __ in the country’. What is the missing word?
11. Jewellery stolen from the Louvre in Paris has been valued at how much in euros according to the French public prosecutor?
12. Snapchat, Fortnite, Zoom, Ring doorbells and HMRC were among thousands affected by an outage at which company?
13. Mohammed Umar Khan, 15, was jailed for life for the murder of Harvey Willgoose, also 15, during their lunch break at All Saints Catholic High School in what city?
14. The 21-year-old son of which ex-footballer was killed in a tractor crash in Gloucestershire?
15. Which company announced it is was to close 68 restaurants and 11 delivery sites in the UK with the loss of 1,210 jobs?
16. Which city became the first in the UK to vote to charge drivers of larger vehicles, such as Range Rovers and SUVs, higher parking fees?
17. Tom Boyd, 28, an autistic volunteer shelf-stacker, was let go by which supermarket in Cheadle Hulme after asking for a paid position?
18. Dave Ball, who died aged 66, was credited with being the musical force behind which 80s synth-pop group?
19. What storm, named by the French weather service Météo France, moved through the English Channel on Thursday, bringing violent winds with gusts up to 100mph?
20. What did Denise Bacon, 65, who has Parkinson's disease, do while undergoing brain surgery at King's College Hospital, London?
21. ITV said it was standing by which Loose Women presenter after she was suspended from her BBC radio programme for allegations of bullying?
22. A woman was chased by three enforcement officers and fined £150 (later rescinded by the council), for doing what near Richmond station in London?
23. Afua Kyei, 43, the finance chief of the Bank of England, was named the UK’s most influential what in this year’s Powerlist?
24. McVitie's Penguin and Club bars can no longer be classed as what?
25. Which two celebrities posted a video clip on Instagram saying that after '21 wonderfully joyful years’ the time was right to 'step aside and pass over the baton’? Half a point for each name.
The top team was the Barnard Castle FOC including Our Peter, Jackie, Bill, Trev and Carole also with 20. Maura and Phil Parsons, the Broad Oak Boozers and the Little Choir of Teesdale all scored 19 and Adam Batstone and the Spanish golfers scored 17. Here is this week's newsquiz. As usual there are 25 questions about the week. Why not give it a go and let me know your score?
Today's front pages
1. What is the name of the 30-room residence in Windsor where Prince Andrew lives and where he has not paid rent for 20 years?
2. In a statement released through Buckingham Palace, Prince Andrew agreed to give up his titles. Which of these is not one of his titles? a) Duke of York b) Royal Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter c) Lord Windsor d) the Earl of Inverness.
3. King Charles made history when he became the first British monarch in 500 years to do what?
4. Labour lost its seat in Caerphilly Senedd, for the first time in 100 years, when which party won Thursday's by-election?
5. How many women have quit the survivors panel in the grooming gangs inquiry due to concerns it was being diluted and that their voices was being silenced?
6. Who told the Covid inquiry that children had paid a 'huge price' during the pandemic, saying the loss of education, exams and the disappointment, anger, frustration had been 'a disaster’?
7. A judge in Belfast found Soldier F not guilty of murdering two people, and of five counts of attempted murder, on Bloody Sunday in Londonderry in which year?
8. In an effort to pressure Moscow to negotiate a peace deal in Ukraine, the US announced new sanctions targeting two of Russia's largest companies that produce what?
9. What was the name of the protests, against Donald Trump’s administration, that brought millions to the streets across all 50 US states on Saturday?
10. The East Wing of the White House was demolished to make way for what US President described as ‘the most beautiful __ in the country’. What is the missing word?
11. Jewellery stolen from the Louvre in Paris has been valued at how much in euros according to the French public prosecutor?
12. Snapchat, Fortnite, Zoom, Ring doorbells and HMRC were among thousands affected by an outage at which company?
13. Mohammed Umar Khan, 15, was jailed for life for the murder of Harvey Willgoose, also 15, during their lunch break at All Saints Catholic High School in what city?
14. The 21-year-old son of which ex-footballer was killed in a tractor crash in Gloucestershire?
15. Which company announced it is was to close 68 restaurants and 11 delivery sites in the UK with the loss of 1,210 jobs?
16. Which city became the first in the UK to vote to charge drivers of larger vehicles, such as Range Rovers and SUVs, higher parking fees?
17. Tom Boyd, 28, an autistic volunteer shelf-stacker, was let go by which supermarket in Cheadle Hulme after asking for a paid position?
18. Dave Ball, who died aged 66, was credited with being the musical force behind which 80s synth-pop group?
19. What storm, named by the French weather service Météo France, moved through the English Channel on Thursday, bringing violent winds with gusts up to 100mph?
20. What did Denise Bacon, 65, who has Parkinson's disease, do while undergoing brain surgery at King's College Hospital, London?
21. ITV said it was standing by which Loose Women presenter after she was suspended from her BBC radio programme for allegations of bullying?
22. A woman was chased by three enforcement officers and fined £150 (later rescinded by the council), for doing what near Richmond station in London?
23. Afua Kyei, 43, the finance chief of the Bank of England, was named the UK’s most influential what in this year’s Powerlist?
24. McVitie's Penguin and Club bars can no longer be classed as what?
25. Which two celebrities posted a video clip on Instagram saying that after '21 wonderfully joyful years’ the time was right to 'step aside and pass over the baton’? Half a point for each name.
Answers here
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