Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

A Dorset-based criminal justice charity has welcomed Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s commitment to abolish controversial Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences, but warns that releasing prisoners safely depends entirely on robust community.

Cash for Kids South Coast Central invites schools, sports clubs and charities across Dorset to join 2026 challenge for disadvantaged children, raising up to £5,000.

Businesses invited to take part in an evening of competition and fundraising at the Gallagher Poole Corporate Quiz Night, in support of Diverse Abilities.

A husband has paid tribute to his 'beautiful' wife, who died just hours after they married, as he raises money to fight the cancer that took her life.

The Hinton Workspace Business Expo will take place in Hinton St Mary on Thursday, November 12

SMALL grants of more than £84,000 will make am impact for grass roots groups and charities thanks to Dorset Community Foundation’s Neighbourhood Fund.

Bournemouth-based specialist education company My Kind of Thinking has launched a free guide to help neurodivergent students prepare for university.

GrandSlam Wrestling will take over the O2 Academy Bournemouth on Thursday, October 29, promising an evening of high-energy action

Dan Ware has joined Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) in the new role to strengthen links between creative education and commercial enterprise.

Increased police patrols have brought daytime calm and cleaner alleyways to Bournemouth’s Triangle, but local workers warn the deep-seated drug crisis is simply shifting into the shadows.

Acclaimed singer James Blunt will perform in Bournemouth next spring as part of his 2027 UK and Ireland arena tour

She is encouraging the public to support her fundraising efforts through her JustGiving page, which is raising funds for the Dorset Historic Churches Trust.

Road closures and parking restrictions have been announced ahead of an upcoming folk festival.

A charity has been shortlisted for a major international award for its work supporting disabled young people into employment.

A law firm that once started from a living room is now celebrating 20 years in business.

Devastated by the Nepalese floods, local restaurant group 29029 is doing all they can to raise funds for those affected back home.

Around 140 migrants have been rescued after travelling towards Hampshire today.

Frogs can become quite noisy if they shelter in your garden but there is an easy way to deter them from your home.

A brothel has been shut down as part of recent policing activity in the town centre.

A search is underway to locate a woman last seen in Poole, as police express that they're 'concerned' for her welfare.

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.