Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

Brandon Roku Ali took home the 25-39 age category at the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) Music-Making Competition

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has launched a strategy to prevent homelessness, support people at risk, and help residents find secure accommodation.

Pupils at Hill View Primary Academy in Bournemouth have been learning about mental wellbeing and online safety during a visit from the Coram SCARF team.

Two brothers from Poole are setting off on a 312-mile walk to raise funds for potentially life-extending cancer treatment for their dad

Bournemouth International Film Festival handed out 55 awards as more than 60 films, sold-out screenings and workshops drew UK filmmakers and fans

Tthe story of Merley Bird Gardens in Dorset, the exotic bird attraction at historic Merley House remembered fondly decades after closing in the 1990s.

Paul Jenkins and Allen Westerby complete a 40-mile kayak from Swanage to The Needles in 14 hours, raising funds for Blandford School science equipment.

A festival celebrating the fascinating world of fungi is set to return to a hidden Dorset garden, with foraging experiences, workshops and live music planned.

A major pub in Bournemouth is set to reopen next month after a £280,000 transformation into a state-of-the-art sports venue.

Bournemouth couple aged 80 and 77 will run Portsmouth’s Great South Run on October 18 after 140 races, raising £89,000 for British Liver Trust.

The following cases were heard at Poole Magistrates' Court:

An iconic high street retailer with a rich musical heritage and a history of hosting music's greatest legends is set to reopen its newly upgraded Dorset store.

Dorset Army Cadet Sophie Synakova, 16, helps injured mobility scooter rider after a fall, giving first aid and controlling bleeding before an ambulance arrived.

Tributes have been paid to a beloved dinner lady and pre-school assistant who died suddenly aged 72.

The Cherries’ place in Europe represents a ‘really good opportunity’ to boost the area’s economy, and BCP Council is primed to maximise Bournemouth’s place among the European elite.

SOBO Beach can continue operating for a further 11 months to allow for a smoother transition between operators.

BCP Council to vote on future of SoBo Beach site - live updates throughout the night

A MAJOR development of up to 500 homes is being reconsidered by Dorset councillors on Wednesday after changes to national planning policy raised new questions about wildfire risk.

Restart a Heart Day on October 16 promotes CPR and AED training, as Resuscitation Council UK and Bournemouth University raise cardiac arrest awareness.

A Bournemouth man was amazed after spotting a ‘huge’ jellyfish washed up on the beach during his morning walk.

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.