Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

A BOURNEMOUTH holiday provider has criticised plans for a new "tourist tax" in England.

The Embassy Centre has completed the first stage of its ground-floor refurbishment and will showcase the transformed space at two special events for members, families, friends and the wider community.

Arts by the Sea Festival is set to return with this year's theme, Elemental, exploring the forces of earth, fire, water and air.

Donations to the RNLI are believed to have seen a recent rise and Poole lifeboat museum is set to reopen tomorrow after it temporarily closing due to volunteers being abused protesters.

Bournemouth’s Danni joins The Great British Bake Off series 17 on Channel 4 from September 22, bringing video game-inspired bakes to the tent.

The British Hedgehog Preservation Society is urging people to follow a simple three-step bonfire safety plan to protect hedgehogs and other wildlife as bonfire season approaches.

A long-running row over land needed for green space has finally been cleared, paving the way for 53 new homes.

Police appeal for witnesses after a three-vehicle fail-to-stop crash on the A31 near Wimborne on September 9 left two people injured and a driver sought.

Life-saving rescue equipment stolen from Fordingbridge and Burley fire stations in the New Forest after break-ins, as police appeal for witnesses.

A parliamentary motion has been tabled in support of the RNLI following protests outside its Poole headquarters.

A Poole man charged with rape has been cleared of all charges.

Life-saving rescue equipment stolen from Fordingbridge and Burley fire stations in the New Forest after break-ins, as police appeal for witnesses.

Residents in Dorset were woken to the sound of an individual using a claw hammer to smash their front living room window before striking the windscreen of their vehicle parked outside.

Former British BMX champion Anthony Revell leads Stolen Yamaha to second consecutive VMXdN Hawkstone victory

Former British BMX champion Anthony Revell leads Stolen Yamaha to second consecutive VMXdN Hawkstone victory

Residents in Dorset were woken to the sound of an individual using a claw hammer to smash their front living room window before striking the windscreen of their vehicle parked outside.

The UK’s largest pub company and owner of multiple chains with Dorset sites, has shut its Be At One bar in central Bournemouth and is currently under formal investigation over alleged mistreatment of tied tenants.

Entries are now open for the 2026 Brilliance in Business Awards, celebrating outstanding businesses from across the New Forest.

A vehicle appears to have become stuck on the beach at Hengistbury Head this morning.

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

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.