Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

A Dorset-based criminal justice charity has welcomed Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s commitment to abolish controversial Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentences, but warns that releasing prisoners safely depends entirely on robust community.

Cash for Kids South Coast Central invites schools, sports clubs and charities across Dorset to join 2026 challenge for disadvantaged children, raising up to £5,000.

Businesses invited to take part in an evening of competition and fundraising at the Gallagher Poole Corporate Quiz Night, in support of Diverse Abilities.

When we talk about growing Dorset’s economy, we often talk about investment, new businesses, infrastructure and jobs.

Dorset black-tie events by Smoochy Events include Hilton Sky Bar singles nights on November 7 and 14, plus Christmas on the Sea at Bournemouth Pier – £12 tickets.

Sidney Palmer will be selling his 3D-printed creations at a charity craft fair on September 26, held at Wolvercroft Garden Centre in Fordingbridge.

The Hinton Workspace Business Expo will take place in Hinton St Mary on Thursday, November 12

SMALL grants of more than £84,000 will make am impact for grass roots groups and charities thanks to Dorset Community Foundation’s Neighbourhood Fund.

Reports on two farmer-led conservation groups, supported by Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust are a rare, evidence-based success story for nature recovery.

A care home has helped one of its residents get back in the saddle after nearly a lifetime away from riding.

Michelle Frampton, who celebrated two years sober on August, 17, has started her London Marathon training.

Bournemouth-based specialist education company My Kind of Thinking has launched a free guide to help neurodivergent students prepare for university.

GrandSlam Wrestling will take over the O2 Academy Bournemouth on Thursday, October 29, promising an evening of high-energy action

Dan Ware has joined Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) in the new role to strengthen links between creative education and commercial enterprise.

PART of a town centre building with offices on the Dorset-Hampshire border is to be auctioned by Clive Emson on September 22.

Increased police patrols have brought daytime calm and cleaner alleyways to Bournemouth’s Triangle, but local workers warn the deep-seated drug crisis is simply shifting into the shadows.

Acclaimed singer James Blunt will perform in Bournemouth next spring as part of his 2027 UK and Ireland arena tour

She is encouraging the public to support her fundraising efforts through her JustGiving page, which is raising funds for the Dorset Historic Churches Trust.

Road closures and parking restrictions have been announced ahead of an upcoming folk festival.

A charity has been shortlisted for a major international award for its work supporting disabled young people into employment.

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.