News Squared

The number of people who have died worldwide in the Covid-19 pandemic has surpassed three million, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Tensions are growing over the build-up of Russian troops at its border with Ukraine. The BBC's Jonah Fisher reports from eastern Ukraine's front line between soldiers and Russian-backed forces.

Around 200 tonnes of illegally harvested giant clam shells worth nearly $25 million (£18 million) have been seized in the Philippines.

The seizure is one of the largest ever hauls of the endangered species. Four suspects have been arrested on an island in the ecologically protected province of Palawan. Giant clams can grow larger than one metre across, and weigh up to 250kg. They are seen as vital to the local marine ecosystem.

Mars helicopter first flight: Nasa to test Ingenuity

This small helicopter is set to be the first to fly on another planet. Ingenuity is a 1.8kg (4lb) helicopter that travelled to Mars inside Nasa's Perseverance rover, which landed in February 2021. Nasa say it's now aiming to test it on Monday 19 April but admits it may not be successful, in which case they'll try again later in the week.

Barca thrash Athletic to win Copa del Rey. Barcelona scored four goals in 12 minutes - including a brilliant strike from Lionel Messi - to thrash Athletic Bilbao and win the Copa del Rey.

Barca were frustrated until the 60th minute when Antoine Griezmann turned in Frenkie de Jong's cross before De Jong headed in himself three minutes later. Russian-backed forces.

IPL: Sunrisers Hyderabad beaten by Mumbai Indians despite Jonny Bairstow knock

Mumbai Indians eked out a 13-run Indian Premier League win over Sunrisers Hyderabad, who lost their way after Jonny Bairstow's sparkling 43. Bairstow had Sunrisers on track to chase 151, but after he trod on his stumps, they fell from 72-0 to 104-5.

Chelsea 1-0 Man City: Thomas Tuchel proving Roman Abramovich's well-worn formula works

When Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich proved no-one's history at the club could shield them from his ruthless pursuit of success by sacking the iconic figure of manager Frank Lampard in January, he was following a well-worn formula. Abramovich has a habit of acting brutally but with ultimately successful outcomes - so it was no surprise that as Lampard went out of one door at Stamford Bridge, in came the experienced, proven managerial expertise of Thomas Tuchel.

Sheldon Chalet might just be the most remote luxury hotel anywhere on Earth

If you're looking to be reminded of the magnificence of Mother Nature and the Universe, this is the holiday home for you. With a helicopter as your only transport option, you'll have a bird's eye view of the glacier and mountains surrounding this extraordinary property in the middle of Alaska. Sheldon Chalet is a 5-bedroom luxury chalet in Denali National Park. Denali, for the uninitiated, is the highest mountain in North America.

From butter lambs to whipping women: The strangest Easter traditions from around the world

Easter is one of the most important dates in the Christian calendar. In mainstream contemporary culture, it has become characterised by motifs including chocolate eggs, bunnies, lambs and springtime. But in some cultures, there are alternate ways to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.

This treehouse ‘suite’ helps people relax and connect with nature

Three treehouses, connected by rope bridges, are one of the most sought-after properties on Airbnb. Located in a patch of peaceful woodlands near downtown Atlanta in Georgia, USA , guests have full use of the ‘suite’. Host Peter Bahouth originally built the structure - using upcycled materials - for his own use, and didn’t expect the huge interest he’s received.

Gustavo Dudamel's blazing Otello takes Barcelona by storm

For the charismatic conductor Gustavo it's a score that is brimming with variety. “Immediately these first, you know, bars of the opera are so powerful," enthuses Dudamel. "There's this moment where you have fortissimo, tutta forza accents. The thing is to balance this. We are living the drama with an intensity more than with screaming."

Catch the spring vibe with these vintage pictures of Parisians

There is never too much sunshine -- especially in Paris. As traveling is limited and many places in Europe are experiencing rather cold weather, let this selection of vintage images transport you virtually to a warmer place. The photographs feature Parisians enjoying the first days of spring between 1945 to 1950.

Dutch government will allow 3,500 to attend Eurovision in COVID trial

Up to 3,500 people will be able to attend this year's Eurovision Song Contest as part of a trial to see how to reopen venues during the pandemic, the Dutch government has announced. Last year's edition was cancelled as Europe was in the throes of the first wave of the pandemic. This year's contest is to be held in Rotterdam from May 18 to 22 following Dutch singer Duncan Laurence's victory in the 2019 competition.