Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

The Fern Brook Community Hub, based in the grounds of Fern Brook Lodge care home in Gillingham, has officially launched.

Entrepreneur Jim Edmondson will cycle 165 miles from Dorset to Cornwall, building a brand with AI to raise £1,000 for mental health charity The Wave Project.

Hoburne has created a work experience programme to boost the confidence, skills, and employability of young people with SEN.

Bournemouth Pavilion archive marks its first year preserving the theatre’s entertainment history, with volunteers seeking memorabilia ahead of its centenary.

Bournemouth Fireworks returns to the Littledown Centre on Saturday, November 7, for its 28th annual event

The demonstration, part of the international Mothers' Rebellion for Climate Justice movement, will take place on Boscombe High Street from midday on October 25.

Poole’s Holes Bay Premier Inn has applied to BCP Council for a licence to sell alcohol to non-residents until 12.30am, with representations due October 28.

Harlem Globetrotters bring Rivalry Tour to Bournemouth International Centre on February 28, 2027, with fan voting, Washington Generals and tickets on sale.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC), has rated Avon Reach in Dorset as outstanding following an inspection in August.

Jason Statham faces a New Forest planning battle over driveway and lake plans at his £20m estate, with ecologists raising great crested newt concerns.

A petition has been launched against plans for a new retirement complex in Lymington

Only 200,000 were released into banks and post offices, making it the rarest 50p in active UK circulation

Tesco has expanded its Clubcard loyalty scheme, allowing shoppers to collect points across 500 online retailers including Nike, Boden and Ticketmaster.

Wagamama has introduced same-day bookings for its restaurants, meaning guests have another option alongside walk-ins

Tesco is recruiting 28,000 temporary workers across the UK for Christmas, with pay starting at £13.28 an hour and no CV required.

Next has recalled Mint Velvet Raya wedge sandals over concerns the footbed could detach from the heel and cause wearers to fall.

Bournemouth man Ed Bates launches Thrive Foundation, offering free mental health and addiction support, counselling and recovery help through lived experience.

Discover how TV choirmaster Gareth Malone transformed early struggles in Bournemouth and raw youth work in Poole into the authentic style that captured the nation on The Choir.

More than 80,000 people calling for the State Pension age to be cut to 65 have been dealt a blow after the Government confirmed it has no plans to lower it.

Toby Carvery has responded to portion size claims with a £7 roast offer, a charity feast and an invitation behind the scenes for content creator, Tee Gee.

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.