Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

UK drivers have been warned they risk fines, bans and prison after research revealed millions have not checked the Highway Code since passing their test.

TREES have come crashing down across Dorset as strong winds from Storm Austen cause disruption across the area.

Thousands of homes are without power and travel is disrupted as Storm Austen hits the South West and forecasters issue warnings for Storm Boelo.

Households are being urged to prepare for up to three days of disruption during severe weather emergencies.

The government has updated its Be Ready emergency checklist, naming nine items and provisions all UK households should keep at home.

CLOSED: Yesterday afternoon (Thursday October 22), officers in the New Forest served a full closure order on a flat in New Milton, following collaborative efforts between the Neighbourhood Policing Team and partners, including New Forest District Council.

A cordon is in place after a suspected unexploded bomb was discovered on a popular beach.

A charity is calling for urgent public support to help deliver life-saving aid to Ukraine

Plans for a two-storey outbuilding at a Ringwood home have been rejected on appeal

Storm Austen swept across Dorset and the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area on Friday, October 23, bringing severe weather, transport chaos and coastal flood alerts.

A Halloween light trail at a popular country park has been cancelled due to stormy weather.

Plans to open a new Greggs and jet washes at a petrol station in Christchurch has been recommended for approval despite hundreds of objections

The Bournemouth North Neighbourhood Policing Team and traffic enforcement officers undertook a 'Day of Action', focusing on the East Way area.

Dorset Police say crime is continuing to fall, with the county remaining one of the safest in England.

Temporary traffic lights are in place on a town centre street as work gets underway.

A woman was arrested after stolen items were recovered from a car park.

To make up for the shortening days, the clocks will go back across the UK this weekend

A popular country park is closed for the day due to stormy weather.

Warm Home Discount letters confirm £150 off winter energy bills for eligible households in England and Wales.

Freeview viewers are being urged to retune their TV to access 14 channel changes made on October 21.

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.