Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

BCP councillors said protecting residents' data and guarding against cyber attacks were key reasons an £11.2 million investment in the council’s IT infrastructure is needed. The investment will be part of a long-term plan to maintain and secure the council’s IT systems between 2026 and 2032.

The Royal Mint is marking 60 years of Star Trek with two new collectable 50p coins, featuring designs from across the Star Trek universe

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency has issued a warning to UK drivers urging them to “be aware”.

Sunseeker International has launched a new division to manage its European operations directly.

More than 500 residents gathered to raise concerns about water quality, pollution, and the health of Christchurch Harbour in a public meeting

Fireworks will be lighting up the skies again after cancellations due to weather and wildfire risk

A council has said it cannot create a dedicated coroner’s facility for some years due to financial pressures

Swanage lifeboat’s team is hoping to reward fund-raisers with new information boards being proposed for the town station.

A shortage of burial land has led to a new cemetery being planned for Gillingham.

A new roof and extension have been agreed for Colehill First School off Pilford Heath Road.

Emergency services rushed to Bournemouth Airport after a Jet2 crew member fell ill on a flight from Greece. Passengers disembarked safely.

Road close and traffic diverted following reports of a "serious crash' in on Poole Road.

Pausing pension contributions could boost take-home pay by £1,000 but leave an average earner more than £12,000 worse off in retirement.

The Prime Minister has been challenged on plans to 'tear apart' the New Forest by local MP Sir Julian Lewis.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) warned that phthalates can harm the health of children, and could possibly damage reproductive systems.

Research has come out that people who take paracetamol too often might have a higher risk of increasing their blood pressure and heart disease.

Could you have £2,000 sitting untouched? The forgotten savings pots millions of young adults may be entitled to

There are lots of signs on UK roads but this parking sign has confused drivers with some questioning when they're able to park near it.

We have received reports of a 'major incident' at Bournemouth Airport last night, the plane involved is believed to be the Jet2 flight arriving from Kos International Airport, Greece. Bournemouth Airport, Jet2 and emergency services have been contacted for further information.

Teams Pull Together to Move a 35,000kg Boeing 737 at Bournemouth Airport as part of the Dorset Plane Pull, raising more than £3,000 for Dorset Mind

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”?