Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

The Government has responded to a petition signed by 68,598 people calling for higher maternity pay. Here's what ministers said.

State Pension age verdict as Government rejects calls to let older workers retire earlier - but there is still time to push for parliamentary debate

Residents have welcomed an extension to a New Forest theme park as the initial plans were put on show.

A pink family home resembling a real-life Barbie dream house has gone on the market for £1.15m.

Dorset is set to host creepy bath bomb workshops and potion-making parties in the run up to Halloween this half term.

The mother of an 11-year-old boy hit by a car in Pokesdown is appealing for help tracing the driver, who allegedly failed to stop after the collision.

A new, family-run café has opened in Corfe Mullen, offering afternoon tea, freshly baked cakes and savoury treats.

A £330,000 resident discount scheme went ahead despite warnings that it could reduce income from several council services.

Tributes have been paid to a 'selfless' and 'truly wonderful man' who dedicated decades to saving lives and inspiring others.

A new Greggs branch is opening inside a Bournemouth supermarket.

A jury has been selected for the trial of Russell Brand on charges of rape and sexual assault which span 10 years of his showbiz career.

Investigation by detectives sees woman who sexually assaulted teenage boy jailed

Russell Brand said “blessed, thank you very much” as he arrived at court for the second day of his rape and sexual assault trial.

The Government is proposing to remove road rights over a public grass verge that a Christchurch homeowner won planning permission to turn into a private garden.

A driver has been banned after speeding at 108mph in a 50mph zone.

Stunning photos taken in the New Forest show two male deer battling it out as their annual rutting season is underway

The Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre provided an elegant, historic backdrop for Katherine Jenkins as she brought her 25 Year Anniversary Tour to the south coast tonight, delivering a masterclass in classical crossover performance.

The Monday Morning Group of Volunteers, known for tidying up the main streets of Wimborne Minster, were finalists in the Radio Solent Make A Difference Awards.

Bournemouth is set to benefit from a major boost in rail capacity as part of an investment in CrossCountry services

Bournemouth fans face the most expensive away-day pint among Premier League clubs competing in Europe this season.

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.