Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

Martin Lewis has issued advice to households on whether to fix energy bills now, as wholesale prices remain high and winter approaches.

Talbot Heath School in Branksome received the English Schools' Swimming Association National President's Award Gold, sponsored by Watch Me Swimming Awards.

New Forest dog owners protested against dogs-on-leads restrictions post Foot and Mouth.

Brockenhurst welcomed 9,500 dogs to the Bournemouth Canine Association show in the New Forest on August 11-12, 1989, with Crufts hopes at stake.

Dusk Till Dawn: The Seaside Switchback to go ahead in tribute to Nims Purja

A new toucan crossing has been installed at a busy junction following long-standing concerns over pedestrian safety.

Judi Love and Jon Richardson have been announced for Bake Off's new spin-off show, Second Helpings.

A planning application has been submitted to demolish the Haven Hotel and business centre, clearing the prominent Sandbanks site for possible future redevelopment.

Ten-year-old Sidney Palmer will donate part of his craft-fair takings to the Fire Fighters Charity.

From superheroes and sci-fi characters to anime icons and gaming favourites, a Bournemouth venue was transformed into a celebration of pop culture as Comic Con returned to the town.

Drugs were seized from a car after officers spotted it being driven suspiciously in Christchurch.

Ten-year-old Sidney Palmer will donate part of his craft-fair takings to the Fire Fighters Charity.

A bar owner who was forced to close after complaints from a handful of anonymous people has thanked the town for supporting her.

Victims of disgraced former police inspector Gerard Hutchings are taking further legal action after he was jailed for 10 years for sexual strip searches

A Poole MP is calling for an end to greyhound racing, urging England to follow in the shoes of Scotland and Wales by banning the competitive sport.

Three people were arrested in Poole after an aggressive shoplifting incident escalated when 'street drinkers' obstructed officers.

Comedy is making a comeback at a seafront venue for the first time since a devastating fire.

The Old Mill is the historic riverside pub in the New Forest which boasts one of Britain's best beer gardens.

The UK's largest bird of prey, a white-tailed eagle has been spotted perching in the New Forest.

A woman wearing nothing but a bath towel decided to confront and chase off a thief, after she caught him trying to steal tools from her father's work van.

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.