Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

Dorset Parky Striders took on Eastleigh Walking Football Club at the Places Leisure Centre in Eastleigh, winning all six games.

The bird and hedgehog boxes, created by Gillshed CIC, have been designed and created for at Taylor Wimpey Southern Counties’ Gillingham Lakes development

The sector professionals gathered for the first-ever Children’s Activities Association (CAA) regional meeting in Dorset, held at SOBO Beach Bar in Bournemouth.

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Residents have reported several seal sightings from Avon Beach to the River Stour.

Steele Raymond earns top-tier Legal 500 UK 2027 rankings for 22nd year, recognised for corporate, litigation and property work across the South West firm.

A homecare company based in Dorset has earned a 5-star satisfaction rating from its franchise owners for the second year running.

Community-minded residents and staff at three Colten Care homes have raised more than £1,000 for charities supported by the National Garden Scheme (NGS).

More than 260 families attended an open evening at The Blandford School last week

Vagabond Pilates, which has studios in Dorset, took home three honours at the Great British Business & Community Awards 2026.

YMCA Bournemouth is celebrating the difference youth clubs can make to young people following a summer of activities, friendship and new experiences.

Bournemouth University research finds hidden eating disorders, especially bulimia, overlap with alcohol problems, urging integrated support and screening.

New data has revealed that Bournemouth’s average £386,700 home now costs 10.6 times the £36,500 average salary, creating a major affordability hurdle

Here are the latest planning applications submitted to BCP Council for towns within the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area

The Tank Museum in Bovington has launched its 2026 Christmas jumper, featuring Santa Claus riding a Sherman tank through a wintry scene.

Four local artists represented the New Forest region on the international stage exhibiting new artwork at the prestigious Venice Biennale.

Roni Size Reprazent will perform at O2 Academy in Bournemouth on Thursday, June 3, 2027, as part of their UK tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of New Forms

Over 1,300 responses received as PCC David Sidwick pledges to ensure Dorset's voice is heard in national police reform debate.

Discover Parkstone’s lost cinemas - the Victory Palace and Art Deco Regal brought films, 3D screenings and Saturday clubs to Dorset

Safeguard Community Support warns it could close before winter without public donations, as the Bournemouth volunteer patrol group launches an urgent SOS funding appeal.

These old photos show the world-famous beauty spot of Lulworth Cove over the years

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.