Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

Stuart and Nigel Samson from Ferndown are driving a Thunderbird 4-themed Reliant Robin across Europe in the Bangers for Ben rally, raising funds for mental health, suicide prevention and support services in the automotive industry.

A motion to ask for cheaper parking for New Forest residents has been backed by councillors.

Bournemouth actor Charles Smith stars alongside screen veterans in new spy thriller Knightfall

A man has been charged with more than 30 shoplifting offences after he reportedly targeted two stores in Wimborne.

A luxury yacht builder with it's headquarters in Poole has won a top design award for one of its latest models.

Officers continuing to investigate a burglary at a home in Poole are renewing their appeal for information and issuing a further image of a man they would like to identify.

CAN YOU HELP?We are appealing for information and witnesses following two reported burglaries at fire stations in the New Forest.

Probably best known for her 2017 breakthrough hit Lost Without You, although seemingly not really a household name, singer-songwriter Freya Ridings still virtually filled Lighthouse’s Concert Hall.

Councillors have backed a motion to ask for cheaper parking for New Forest residents

A date has been set for an inquest into the death of a man who died after a fall at an Oasis concert last year.

A car was seized by New Forest police after the driver was arrested for multiple offences including dangerous driving and having no license

Authors and creatives are being invited to a free event with two well-known guest speakers next month.

The number of people relying on disability benefits has reached a record high, with mental health conditions accounting for the biggest share of claims.

The number of people relying on disability benefits has reached a record high, with mental health conditions accounting for the biggest share of claims.

A woman her 40s has sustained serious injuries after being hit by a Mercedes Benz in the car park of a Cafe gift shop in Dorset and Police are appealing for information.

A global coffee chain giant has announced it will be leaving Bournemouth's flagship Primark shop and moving into a neighbouring unit with extended opening hours.

Monkey World has welcomed Ian Brown, legendary frontman of The Stone Roses, for a special visit to the Dorset ape sanctuary this week.

Plans for late-night music at a bar and restaurant in Poole which sparked concerns about anti-social behaviour has been heard by committee

Opposition councillors have criticised the Liberal Democrat-led administration for considering further council tax hikes and higher service charges

A coroner has warned that people addicted to ketamine risk "falling through the cracks" because their care is not properly co-ordinated.

Purbeck Cider launches People’s Choice cider in Dorset, donating £1 per litre sold to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Community-grown apples support charity.

Plans for a new 'build your own' waterfront home with panoramic views have been approved for a site in Dorset

Dorset is the location for Mike Leigh's Play For Today, Nuts in May, which is free to watch on BBC iPlayer

A YouTube video provides an insightful look at Brownsea Island in 1962.

Only Fools and Horses repeats are as popular as ever this Christmas - but did you know that the classic BBC comedy was not once, but twice filmed in Dorset?

Sandbanks Ferry staff were 'verbally abused' by passengers during a temporary suspension.

Hundreds of jobs are to be created at a holiday park as part of a major nationwide investment.

SHOULD there be a tourist tax in Purbeck – the “Purbeck Pound”?