Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

The Met Office has warned Brits to brace for a fifth heatwave of the year - see exactly when.

Whitbread is closing all 105 Beefeater and 89 Brewers Fayre sites in the coming weeks, with loyalty schemes closing too.

Historic coin supplier The London Mint Office has collapsed into administration after 20 years in business.

Looking for the best back-to-school buys? We compare Aldi, M&S, Tu, Clarks and Hype to reveal the best-value uniforms, shoes, bags and bundles.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued "do not eat" warnings for potentially unsafe items due to potential health risks.

Martin Lewis explains the difference between pension withdrawals, drawdown and annuities, and why taking money at the wrong time could increase your tax bill.

The rule currently applies to Asda, Co-op, Marks and Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, and Waitrose.

Food experts settle the argument on whether you should keep your ketchup in the fridge, and the health reasons why

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has agreed to move forward with four projects in Lymington, Totton, and parts of the New Forest.

Thousands of people in Dorset could be providing unpaid care for a loved one, friend or neighbour without realising they are entitled to support.

Following a period of significant change, gliding activity at Eyres Field is continuing under a new club name: Purbeck Flying

National Motor Museum to celebrate the Sunbeam 1000hp at California’s Pebble Beach Classic Car Forum

Four experts at Intergage Marketing Engineers (IME) are together celebrating 60 years of helping technology clients to grow and prosper.

Longfleet Road, Poole, to close from 31 August to 29 November 2026 for SGN gas works. Diversions and parking bans in place; BCP Council traffic order.

Bournemouth-based luxury ski specialist Ski In Luxury has partnered with AFC Bournemouth, becoming a Premier Regional Partner ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Members from Dorset Blind Association took part in a guided kayaking experience off the Jurassic Coast, due to a partnership with Land & Wave.

Wessex Internet has been recognised as a winner of the Best of British Businesses 2026 by The Independent and Business Reporter

Elitoria International Food Ltd has applied for a premises licence at 1 Royal London House, Bournemouth. Comments to BCP Council accepted until August 21.

Highlands End Holiday Park near Bridport was named among the UK's outstanding family sites by Campsites.co.uk

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole welcome millions of visitors every year, but how should you spend a day here?

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”?