Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

How pensioners aged 75 and over on Pension Credit can claim a free TV licence, save £180 and receive automatic refunds on payments.

Here are the latest planning applications submitted to BCP Council for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area

A man who once struggled to walk a kilometre has set himself an incredible 400km challenge for charity.

Wimborne u3a will welcome Martin Stewart on October 16 for “8 Generations, One Passion”, the story of a family business that has been growing plants since 1742.

Honeywell Aerospace, now an independent global aerospace and defence company, has signed the UK Armed Forces Covenant

A fresh bid has been launched to secure listed status for the historic Haven Hotel in Sandbanks.

A celebrity-backed campaign is calling for more support to help children with special needs access after-school activities

Toby Creasey, who is known for combining traditional folk storytelling with modern pop craftsmanship, will release his new song Move To The Moon today.

Dorset’s Twin Sails Bridge will turn purple from October 23 for PoTS Awareness Day, raising awareness of Postural Tachycardia Syndrome and diagnosis delays.

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

Sandbanks Ferry will close for around seven weeks from November 2 for a major refit, with replacement travel arrangements in place.

A series of commemorative events will take place across Ringwood to honour those who gave their lives to defend the country

Dorset Libraries host Black British Ballet workshops at Wimborne and Swanage on October 27 and October 30, with family-friendly dance sessions for all ages.

Ringwood School is celebrating a highly positive Ofsted report following an inspection on September 15 and September 16.

A film based on a video game series, a new film from DreamWorks Animation and a survival thriller film are among films in BCP cinemas this weekend.

One of the largest facilities in the south for dealing with food waste has been officially opened in Dorset.

Southport attack survivor Leanne Lucas praises Bournemouth charity Hope HTS for removing 117 pointed kitchen knives from supported housing and promoting safety.

Recently opened JD Wetherspoons pub The Cranborne Hundred on Ringwood Road, Ferndown, was awarded a five-star hygiene rating by the council’s inspectors.

AJC Group, a housebuilder, has secured planning permission for 78 new homes in Okeford Fitzpaine, following an appeal against Dorset Council’s initial refusal.

LOCAL rugby players John Sargeant and Ben Donald have been rewarded for their efforts in championing mental health with this year's LooseHead of the Year Award

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.