Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

Drivers could think they have a valid and legal MOT certificate but it could be fake - here are five signs to look out for when it comes to 'ghost MOTs'

Child Benefit payments could stop for parents who fail to extend claims by August 31. Find out who qualifies and how to act.

Every child’s journey is unique, and at Clayesmore that journey unfolds through five distinct chapters: Nursery, PrePrep, Prep, Senior and Sixth Form

A sailor was rescued after their dinghy capsized in Parkstone Bay.

A councillor wants cheaper parking for New Forest residents, saying current costs are pricing out pensioners and low-income families.

A motor museum will remain open to the public in the New Forest despite the National Motor Museum Trust searching for a new home, the attraction has confirmed.

Firefighters tackled a heath fire near a car park in Lyndhurst on Saturday evening

Crews remain tackling the New Forest blaze for the tenth day- updates to follow.

Large parts of Dorset have been placed under a hosepipe ban by Wessex Water, which restricts how you can use water.

Two men were racially abused before having a traffic cone thrown at them in Bournemouth.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has announced that disabled bus pass time restrictions will be removed in England from April 2027

Residents, landowners and businesses are being invited to take part in a public consultation on the revised draft New Forest National Park Local Plan.

Ringwood Town Council has installed the new bleed control kit at Carvers Recreation Ground, alongside an existing public access defibrillator.

The Swanage Seaside Special will take place on Shore Road on Saturday, August 22, featuring four live puppet shows starting from 12pm.

Arsenic & Ashes: The Trial of Charlotte Bryant will be published by Banquo Books on August 25 and will be available from all good bookshops and online retailers

The Mediaeval Baebes will perform at Christchurch Priory on December 2 as part of their 30th anniversary tour.

Homeowners are being warned to check contractors' credentials to avoid falling victim to fraudulent claims

Four siblings have moved from Australia to Boscombe to pursue their ballroom dancing dreams, with each of the siblings receiving a £381 grant from the DCF.

Residents from Colten Care's Fernhill dementia care home in Longham have enjoyed a hands-on day at High Mead Farm, reconnecting with animals and nature.

Mandi Barron will head the Pride in Place Board for Boscombe West, guiding the long-term funding programme over the next 10 years.

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.