BBC Breakfast viewers were greeted with a change in the usual presenting line-up on Monday (12 May), as Jon Kay was notably absent from the red sofa. Sally Nugent, who typically co-hosts with Kay from Monday to Wednesday, was instead joined by Richard Johnson. The temporary switch was announced during Sunday's broadcast, with Johnson hinting at the reason behind Kay's absence.

The change comes as BBC Breakfast finds itself in the spotlight, having been nominated for a BAFTA TV Award in the News Coverage category. The nomination is for the programme's special coverage on the Post Office scandal, a segment that brought to light the harrowing experiences of nine victims. Johnson revealed that Kay's absence was due to his involvement with the BAFTA-related events, marking a proud moment for the BBC One flagship show.

Sunday's episode of BBC Breakfast also saw Roger Johnson at the helm, part of the rotating cast of presenters who deliver the news on weekends. The show's Sunday episodes are known for their variety of stand-in presenters, including Rachel Burden, Ben Thompson, and Nina Warhurst, among others. This flexibility ensures the programme maintains its high standards of news delivery, even as it celebrates its achievements.

During Monday's broadcast, Sally Nugent took a moment to congratulate the BBC Breakfast team on their BAFTA win, highlighting the programme's commitment to impactful journalism. The award not only recognizes the team's hard work but also underscores the importance of telling stories that resonate with the public. As BBC Breakfast continues to evolve, its ability to adapt and celebrate its successes ensures it remains a staple of British morning television.

A former Northumbria Police detective, Sue Thorpe, has been given a suspended prison sentence after a court found her guilty of stalking her ex-boyfriend and misusing police computer data to harass him. The 44-year-old bombarded surfing instructor Barry Henderson with abusive messages and falsely accused him of serious crimes, including being a paedophile, in a year-long campaign following their breakup.

Newcastle Crown Court heard that Thorpe's actions were part of a deliberate attempt to damage Mr. Henderson's reputation and his surfing business. She not only sent abusive voicemails, texts, and emails but also used the Police National Computer to illegally access information about him. Thorpe's false allegations were spread to his friends, family, and new partner, and she even set up fake social media accounts and email addresses to further her campaign.

The court sentenced Thorpe to two years in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered her to complete 120 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity days. A 10-year restraining order was also imposed, prohibiting any contact with Mr. Henderson. The judge highlighted the seriousness of Thorpe's misuse of police resources, noting the potential to erode public trust in law enforcement.

In a victim impact statement, Mr. Henderson described how Thorpe's actions had left him feeling 'physically sick' and as though she was 'on a mission to destroy' him. The case sheds light on the severe consequences of stalking and the abuse of power by those in positions of authority, underscoring the importance of accountability and the protection of individuals from such malicious campaigns.