Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

A bookshop visit once promised more than just a purchase.

Beloved broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen, who lived in the New Forest, has said she felt "deprived of choice" in a posthumous note released by her family.

Police are currently swooping on Vape stores in Bournemouth and Poole Our reporter is at the scene Updates to follow

Sandbanks house plans rejected for third time as Poole councillors call proposed three-storey home overbearing and harmful to neighbours’ privacy and light.

A public bridleway cutting through a water treatment works in Christchurch faces diversion under fresh council proposals.

Boots closes its Winton store in Bournemouth, with the pharmacy remaining open until October 30. Customers can use Commercial Road and Castle Point stores.

A school has raised safeguarding concerns after a councillor filmed and posted a video featuring young children walking home from school.

Officers are searching for a Mercedes GLA with front-end damage after a 66-year-old motorcyclist from Gosport died in a collision on the M27.

A free postcode-led website has launched to help Dorset residents discover what is happening on their doorstep.

Jimmy Carr brings new Killing Jokes comedy show to Lighthouse Poole in Dorset on April 10, with 7pm and 9.30pm performances. Tickets on sale October 23.

A school has been described as a "remarkable beacon of hope" for pupils and families in its latest Ofsted report

TV gardening legend Charlie Dimmock headlined the 2026 Wimborne Green Festival with a talk all about the importance of nature and wellbeing.

Four large nitrous oxide canisters have been found outside a park play area in Bournemouth

Police renew appeal after four-vehicle crash on Ashley Road, New Milton, on September 20 left motorcyclist with life-threatening injuries. Witness sought.

A newly refurbished play park has reopened following a £104,000 upgrade to play equipment.

Forensic investigators were seen in a shopping centre car park following a high-value perfume heist.

One lane is blocked on the A31 following a crash, causing slow-moving traffic.

A jury is set to determine whether the death of a Bournemouth University student who contracted meningitis was preventable.

Police seized suspected cannabis plants from a property during a large scale police operation.

There has been a police update on the three men arrested following a police drugs raid in Bournemouth.

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.