Residents fight local development plans
Two communities in Colehill are fighting plans for the inclusion of adjacent land in Dorset Council’s Draft Local Plan.
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Body found in search for Ferndown man
The body, believed to be that of a 78-year-old man who went missing on 26 June, has been found in the area of Badger’s Walk.
West Parley teen athlete is Young Achiever of the Year
Ellie Tompkins, 14, has been awarded a bursary from Wimborne Rotary in partnership with the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.
Wildfire warning in Dorset for the weekend
Due to the continued hot and dry weather, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to be vigilant.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole fails in Town of Culture bid
Despite disappointment, BCP council has highlighted positive outcomes following the 2028 bid, citing strengthened cultural partnerships.
20mph consultation for Bournemouth residents
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is proposing the limit on a number of neighbourhoods including Moordown and Boscombe.
Tribute to rider of an electric unicycle who died in Bournemouth collision
The wife of Benjamin Franklin Wells-Lane, who died on the Wessex Way, has paid tribute to her ‘kind and caring’ husband.
Climate action event for Ringwood
Carvers Recreation Ground hosted the New Forest Thrive Festival which included African activities and a Bee Circus.
Pedestrian injured in Poole hit and run
Police are hoping that not only witnesses will come forward, but also the driver of the car, believed to be a white Vauxhall Astra.
Dorset plans for improved public transport
Following its Outline Business Case report Dorset Council will look at improving public transport across the county.
Musicians and singers sought for Wimborne production
Wimborne Community Theatre will be producing ‘HOME’ at Kingston Lacy from 22–27 September and cast members are needed.
Srebrenica Memorial Flag to be raised in Dorchester
This year marks the 31st anniversary of a genocide which remains the worst atrocity committed on European soil since WWII.
Film to be shot in Bournemouth this summer
Richard Batt is to begin filming ‘Gran Dead’ in the town this month, a project that has been 20 years in the making.
Hammer attack in Poole
Dorset Police are hoping that anyone who witnessed the attack on 4 July outside the Co-op in Creekmoor will come forward.
Clean streets for Broadstone
Pupils from Broadstone First School filled a number of bags when they took part in litter picking in the town.
Get ready for Christchurch Carnival
One of the South’s oldest community festivals will feature live music, tribute acts, a street parade and a fireworks spectacular.
Bournemouth rapist and drug supplier jailed
Nichail Jamal Sixto, who raped two women and supplied Class A drugs, is facing a lengthy jail sentence plus a licence period.
New skate park proposed for Poole
The existing park at Baiter will be extensively refurbished as part of BCP Council’s multi-million-pound Plan for Play strategy.
Plea for suspension of disposable barbecues in Dorset
Dorset Council and Litter Free Dorset are asking retailers to suspend sales of disposable barbecues during this heatwave.
Electric unicyclist dies in Bournemouth collision
The man in his 40s died at the scene on the A338 Wessex Way, and police are seeking dashcam footage and any witnesses.
Ringwood teenager to face court following eight offences
The 14-year-old was charged with offences including shoplifting, driving a motor vehicle and assaulting a constable.
Expanded care funding for Dorset residents
The range of providers has expanded from six to 40, giving more choice to those in receipt of Individual Service Funds.
Cheaper tickets available for Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show
The government’s VAT cut on family activities means prices are reduced to attend this annual agricultural show.
Major regeneration begins in Boscombe
Included in the new scheme will be 68 council-owned homes, a community centre and high-quality green spaces.
Bournemouth play areas to be refurbished in £4.6 million investment
Designs for five play areas have been announced and in total 120 will see upgrades and refurbishments over the coming months.
New Forest Festival in Ringwood this weekend
The New Forest Thrive festival takes place at Carvers Recreation Ground on Saturday 4 July from 10am to 3pm.
Beach safety scheme now in operation across Bournemouth
The KidZone beach safety scheme, providing wristbands for children and vulnerable adults, is now operating.
Search is on for Dorset Town of Culture 2027
Towns in the county have until Monday 13 July to apply for the chance to lead a programme of arts, events and creative activity.
Bargates still open for business, say Christchurch BID and Chamber
The main route into Christchurch is closed for the next three weeks, but businesses along the road are still open as usual and need public support.
Care leaver driving change for young people in Bournemouth
Ivy Forest, who was a child in care, has gone on to become a Housing Options Officer apprentice at BCP Council.
Man jailed for strangling a Blandford woman
Ross John McFadyen not only strangled the woman, he was also found guilty of perverting the course of justice.
RAF aircraft to be stationed at Bournemouth Airport
The airport, which started life as RAF Hurn in 1931, is to accommodate military aircraft over the coming months.
Poole hospice supporter creates emotional video
A Christchurch-based filmmaker worked with Tiff Wilson, supporter of Forest Holme Hospice, on the video and it is available on YouTube.
Police operation sees cash, drugs and weapons seized in Dorset
Arrests were made in Operation Scorpion, which took place across the South West between Monday 22 June and Sunday 28 June.
Southbourne is shaken and stirred
The Shake & Stir Armed Forces Weekend took place on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June
Dorset charity to fund £1 million-worth of mental health projects
Dorset Community Foundation hopes distributing the funds to grass roots community groups will lift pressure off the NHS.
Wimborne becomes a safe place
The Safe Places scheme is launching on 6 July offering an initial point of contact for people in need of support when out and about.
Dorset taxi safety scheme wins award
The Dorset Police Taxi Watch initiative, which partners with STARS Dorset, received the Watch Group Award 2025.
Fireworks to light up the sky in Bournemouth and Poole
The firework evenings take place in Bournemouth on Fridays from 24 July to 28 August and in Poole on Thursdays from 6 to 27 August.
Man missing in Ferndown, police appeal for help
78-year-old Graham went missing between 11pm on Thursday 25 June and 6am on Friday 26 June 2026. The police search remains ongoing.
Students have bold vision for future of Wimborne Minster
An elevated village above the Allenview Car Park site is one of the concepts from students from Arts University Bournemouth.
Invitation to Wimborne sports website launch
The launch of Wimborne Sports and Active Leisure Forum takes place on Thursday 9 July at Wimborne Town Football Club.
Drinking fountain installed in Wimborne
Cool, cool drinking water is now on tap for people in the town as a fountain has been installed outside the Cook Row toilets.
Tree trail relaunched in Wimborne
The trail is the sixth to be launched in the town to mark Wimborne Minster being Town of Culture for 2026.
Jurassic Coast labelled the UK’s most scenic road trip
Looking for a fun road trip idea? Then why not travel along the Jurassic Coast.
Tackling homelessness in Dorset to step up
Dorset Council and BCP Council are working to prevent homelessness, with both authorities presenting new strategies.
Flaming irony — Blandford fire engine catches on fire
The A350 at Charlton Marshall was closed after a fire engine caught on fire on Wednesday 24 June.
Dorset care home provider funds storytelling sessions
Care South has presented funds to enable Christian-based storytelling sessions for residents in their homes
Designs revealed for Ferndown high street’s new look
Following a public consultation and feedback from residents, Dorset Council has revealed the final design for an update to the look of Victoria Road.
Arrr! Pirates take over Poole Quay for summer fun
Harry Paye Day took place on Saturday 20 June to celebrate Poole’s maritime history.
Dorset Police give hot weather warning
With the MET Office issuing a Red Extreme Heat Warning, Dorset Police have provided advice on how to stay safe in hot weather.
Summer reading challenge launched in Dorset libraries
Children are being encouraged to read over the holidays with the launch of the Summer Reading Challenge 2026.
Pony therapy at a Poole hospital
Mr Kelloggs the pony was a hit with mental health patients at the Dorset Healthcare-run Alderney Hospital, giving them a chance to stroke him.
Ferndown Fete on the Field proves a winner
The event on Saturday 20 June was hailed a great success by the organisers, Ferndown and Parley Rotary Club.
First underspend for Dorset Council
For the first time since it was formed seven years ago, Dorset Council hasn’t spent its entire budget.
Three on murder charge following teenager’s death in Poole
Kyeron Wheeler, 18, was found with stab wound injuries in Longfleet Road. He died a short time later in hospital.
Westbourne Rotary president wins volunteer award
Dorset Cancer Care Foundation presented the award to Rotarian Gordon Lewis at a special presentation in Merley House.
Dorset Chamber reacts to Prime Minister’s resignation
The chief executive criticised Keir Starmer’s tenure at Number 10 and said the business community wouldn’t be disappointed.
Wimborne museum explores Dorset’s Gypsy and Traveller communities
The Museum of East Dorset’s new exhibition is titled ‘Home: Gypsy and Traveller Lives in Dorset’.
Community hub plans for Bournemouth nursery
Kings Park Nursery closed more than two years ago, and local people are to have the chance to comment on plans for a community hub.
Bournemouth sculpture to mark life of Robert Louis Stevenson
A sculpture has been unveiled to honour the author who wrote ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’, who moved to Westbourne in 1884.
Car sought following teenager’s death in Poole
Three men have been arrested following the incident in which a teenager was found with injuries – from which he died – in Longfleet Road.
Burglar linked to eight crimes in Bournemouth is jailed
Peter Levy admitted three offences and asked for a further five offences to be taken into consideration.
Wind phones breeze into Bournemouth
More locations are needed to house the devices which allow one-sided conversations with lost loved ones or younger selves.
Ringwood to mark 800th Charter Market anniversary
return to news Ringwood to mark 800th Charter Market anniversary There will be a huge variety of entertainment taking place on 12 July, including a funfair, group acrobatics and juggling acts. Facebook Threads X LinkedIn WhatsApp Email People will be able to gather in Ringwood on Sunday 12 July to celebrate 800 years of…
Canford Cliffs play park to welcome young pirates
The Treasure Island play park is re-opening. People are invited to a special ceremony on 20 June, with lots of entertainment.
New exhibition for Poole Museum
The Art of Jason Wilsher-Mills, which runs from 10 July 2026 to 3 January 2027, features a fantastical world.
Dorset former crime scene investigator gets a brush with the law
A retired Dorset policeman had the chance to have a trip down memory lane.
Teenager dies of stab wound in Poole
Dorset Police are keen to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in Dale Close or Longfleet Road in the early hours of Friday 19 June.
Paul’s fundraising is off the scale hitting over £10,000 for JTYAF
A great friend and ambassador of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF) has been thanked for his extraordinary fundraising support.
REVIEW: Quartet
Aria ready for this? ‘Quartet’ performed by Bournemouth Little Theatre Company
Invitation to join community hub in Hamworthy
The Power House in Poole runs activities including creative sessions, gardening, volunteering opportunities and relaxed spaces to chat and connect.
Cordons at Christchurch property following explosives discovery
Dorset Police are maintaining the cordon around the property whilst searches continue, with two people arrested over firearms offences.
IT recycling hub opens in Wimborne Minster
PCs, laptops, mobile phones and cables can now be dropped off at Allendale House for recycling at a new hub.
Culinary delights at Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival
The annual food and arts festival in Highcliffe enjoyed stunning weather this past weekend.
Bid for a share of Dorset’s Neighbourhood Fund
Small community groups and charities can bid for a share of a £60,000 fund from Dorset Community Foundation aimed at making life better for people.
Captured Russian ship moved to Weymouth
A ship reported to be part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’ has been detained off the coast of Weymouth.
Wimborne Minster Folk Festival continues to thrive
The Folk Festival enjoyed a huge turnout during the sunny summer weekend.
Bournemouth’s Ukraine Relief named Charity of the Year
A charity based at Castlepoint that supports Ukrainian civilians has received national recognition and a £20,000 donation.
Dorset MP Vikki Slade calls for urgent green energy initiatives
The local politician argues the initiatives will bring jobs and cleaner energy to Dorset
Ferndown charity presented with award from the King
Ferndown Community Support was presented with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service on Thursday 11 June.
Museum in Wimborne may have the collectable book for you
The Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne will be holding a sale of collectable books on Saturday 11 July from 10am–4pm. Entry is free.
Dorset Beer Boy celebrates National Beer Day
Did you know today is Beer Day Britain, an annual celebration of UK beer and breweries?
Age-friendly Bournemouth project up for national award
An initiative to make Bournemouth Town Centre better for the elderly has been shortlisted for an award.
Controversial Wimborne bridge traffic trial to end early
Dorset Council is to reopen Julian’s Bridge to two-way traffic.
Free food and arts festival in Highcliffe this weekend
The Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival takes place on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June.
Wimborne Minster Folk Festival kicks off
A three-day celebration of folk music takes place this weekend in Wimborne Minster.
Peacock struts its stuff as nation’s favourite butterfly
The nation has spoken and crowned the Peacock Britain’s Favourite Butterfly in a landmark poll held by wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation.
Southbourne to proudly salute armed forces at Shake & Stir festival
The Shake & Stir Armed Forces Weekender takes place on 27 and 28 June.
Dorset charity fund to inspire next generation of environmentalists
Dorset Community Foundation has launched a Green Futures Fund, which offers grants for projects to tackle climate change.
Wimborne’s Allendale Centre flushed by £1,000 contribution
Poole & Wimborne Woodland Burial has contributed a £1,000 donation towards the refurbishment of Allendale Community centre’s public lavatories.
Dementia-friendly concert for Ferndown
Organised by Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town, the concert by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra was accompanied by cake.
Have a free day out at Canford Heath
Visitors can spend several hours exploring the paths on the biggest area of lowland urban heathland in Dorset.
Social care crisis for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
With more children than ever going into BCP Council care, the council is facing a funding crisis and is asking the government to act.
Specialist nursery in Hampreston offers free group sessions
Over the years, The Knoll Gardens Foundation has supported local charities and schools on bespoke gardening projects.
Bournemouth bus travel trial for disabled pass holders
People in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole who hold disability passes can now travel on the bus for just £1 at weekends.
Robot to combat killer weed in Dorset
A robot which detects and removes ragwort is being tested at Dorset Innovation Park, before visiting farms.
Teenage stabbing in Bournemouth
Police are keen to speak to witnesses, particularly a taxi driver who is reported to have pulled up at the scene in Lincoln Avenue.
Mayor and town crier competition for young people in Wimborne
A competition to find the civic winners will take place at Wimborne Model Town on Saturday 4 July at 2pm.
Local dancer crowned Miss Dorset 2026
Catherine Spencer won the prestigious Miss Dorset competition and will go on to compete in Miss Great Britain in October.
Tie a yellow ribbon for Poole hospice
The Forest Holme Tie a Yellow Ribbon memorial event is open to all and takes place on Saturday 13 June in Poole Park.
Ferndown club facing financial crisis over energy bills
Bluebird Social Club risks closure unless it can raise £14,000 within the next few weeks.
Wimborne teen swimmer selected for the Commonwealth Games
17-year-old Isabella Haynes has been chosen to represent England in para swimming at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Broadstone moped theft
Dorset Police are hoping witnesses will come forward following the theft of a moped outside the Junction Sports and Leisure Centre.
£20 million available for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole areas
The funding is available for Boscombe West, Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor, and West Howe over the next decade.
Wimborne gun shop to close after 49 years
John March Firearms Ltd in West Street, Wimborne Minster, is to close after 49 years of business.
The Tempest to be staged in Canford School grounds
To be performed by Brownsea Open Air Theatre, Shakespeare’s play is full of magic, mischief and imagination.
New Forest residents urged to be wildlife friendly
The New Forest Biodiversity Forum has some advice for people who would like to support wildlife recovery.
Minion Mayhem at Museum of East Dorset
A new trail packed with silliness, surprises and family fun will be available Saturday 11 July to Saturday 5 September.
Grooves on the Green returns to Poole
A weekend of live music, food and family entertainment is promised at this event, which runs from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June.
‘Outstanding’ art on display in Ferndown
Ferndown Art Society held a special exhibition as part of Dorset Arts Week over the weekend of 23–24 May.
Body found in Poole Harbour – three arrested on suspicion of murder
Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team is urging anyone with any information to come forward following the death.
Dorset campaign to tackle green waste fly tipping
The Dorset Partnership Against Rural Crime is encouraging residents and contractors to dispose of garden waste responsibly.
New Bournemouth unit for severely ill young people
Seastone in Bournemouth will provide 24-hour inpatient care for teenagers aged 13 to 18 with severe and complex needs.
Dorset air ambulance launches football-themed challenge
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is hoping participants will try to do 3,000 keepy uppies during the World Cup.
New recycling rules for small businesses in Dorset
The new rules come into force in March next year, but businesses are being urged to start their preparations now.
Horseboarding gallops into Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show
The annual rural show’s list of entertainment will feature the extreme sport of horseboarding in the main ring this August.
Dorset village receives CPR training
A total of 50 villagers from Holt have learned life-saving CPR and defibrillator usage.
Top Dorset apprentices announced
This year’s Dorset Apprenticeship Awards were held at Superior Seals in Ferndown and attended by several dignitaries.
£1.3million nature recovery project for New Forest
Thanks to the fund, numerous species including dragonflies, grasshoppers, birds, eels, reptiles and bats will survive.
New £37m building for Bournemouth and Poole College
The keys have been handed over and the new facility will be open to students this autumn at the Lansdowne campus development.
Beware fake reviews says Dorset funeral director
Douch Family Funeral Directors says people should be wary of reviews that feel a bit too slick and which read like they have been perfectly crafted.
Knives and drugs haul in Dorset week of action
In addition to seizing weapons and drugs, 12 shops in Bournemouth were visited for test purchases, with knife arches in Bournemouth and Weymouth.
New Mayoral team for Ringwood
Ringwood Town Council has elected the Mayor and Deputy Mayor for 2026/2027 as the town celebrates 800th Anniversary of the Market Charter.
Photo exhibition reveals life between Ukraine and Dorset
An upcoming exhibition at Wimborne Minster’s Museum of East Dorset will showcase the work of a Ukrainian photographer.
E-scooter trial could include Corfe Mullen
Dorset Council’s Place and Resources Overview Committee will be discussing a rental trial at its next meeting.
Dorset Citizens Advice CEO retires
Helen Goldsack started as a volunteer in Wareham before eventually becoming chief executive officer in 2021.
Three arrests following Bournemouth fight
Many people were involved in this serious altercation, during which objects were thrown at police officers.
Verwood mayor praises successful book fair
Recently elected Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Simon Gibson, praised the organisers of a Spring Book Fair held in the local Memorial Hall on 23 May.
Motorists continue to park illegally in Bournemouth
Once again, motorists ignored signs and parked illegally near the coast with almost 3,000 Penalty Charge Notices issued.
Second helicopter for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance
And now people will have the chance to give the helicopter a name in a campaign which begins at the end of June.
Dogs in public places consultation in Dorset
People have until 7 August to put forward their views on allowing dogs in public places across the county.
Flood defences for Poole get underway
1.5km of new infrastructure from Poole Bridge to Hunger Hill is to be constructed to prevent flooding to Poole town centre.
Ringwood hairdresser nominated for award
A project offering free haircuts to those facing financial hardship has been nominated for a prestigious award.
Celebrity chef leads Dorset community cooking class
A total of 80 people from across Dorset gathered for a cook-along event led by celebrity chef Lesley Waters.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole promote safety for all
The enhanced scheme offers 102 safe places in Bournemouth, 57 in Poole and 16 in Christchurch, and they are signposted by a logo.
Traffic pollution threatening Dorset heathlands, study finds
Heaths near the A338, A35 and Alderney/Wallisdown roads experienced the highest levels of traffic pollution.
Mosaic artwork installed along Christchurch coastline
The artwork includes the Natterjack Toad, an Oystercatcher, Grey Heron, Stonechat and Shore Crab from Mudeford Quay to Gundimore Beach.
New Local Plan on the agenda for BCP Council
People will have the chance to put forward their views on how Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole will shape up in the future.
Dorset author to attend Ferndown fete in support of JTYAF
A guest appearance by local author Janine Pulford will take place at the JTYAF stand at Fete on the Field in Ferndown on 20 June.
BCP Council calls for government parking fine approval
The government hasn’t yet replied to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s plea for tougher enforcement powers.
Motorists caught in speeding operation in East Dorset
In a targeted action in East Dorset, 73 road traffic offences were dealt with, including one motorist travelling at 71mph in a 50mph speed limit.
Call for captains for the Christchurch River Pageant 2026
A pirate-themed river pageant in Christchurch on Saturday 25 July will see dozens of watercraft parade along the River Stour
Southbourne Food & Fun Fest brings community together
The inaugural Southbourne Food and Fun Fest on 16 May attracted hundreds of local people to Fisherman’s Walk.
Swanage seafront to be protected with £5 million investment
return to news Swanage seafront to be protected with £5 million investment The Green Seafront and Shore Road will benefit from a £5 million investment by Dorset Council, with work beginning next year. Facebook Threads X LinkedIn WhatsApp Email 0:00 / 0:00 Swanage seafront © Andy Lyons Dorset Council has pledged to spend a…
Fordingbridge man walks 650 miles for Salisbury Hospice
James Hirst, 26, has walked the 650-mile South West Coast Path to raise money for Salisbury Hospice.
Crematorium raises funds for Poole hospice
The responsible recycling of metals has enabled Harbour View to donate £12,714.78 to Forest Holme Hospice Charity.
Dorset business organisation stands against antisemitism
Dorset Chamber has joined a number of business organisations following the recent increase in attacks on the Jewish community nationwide.
Blue Flags for beaches across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Sandbanks, Shore Road, Canford Cliffs, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Highcliffe Beach have all received the award.
Louis P meets Smokey Mose
Smokey Mose’s food trailer is a popular sight across the South West. I caught up with him to find out more about cooking the perfect jacket potato.
Boscombe to be regenerated
A new community centre, a wellbeing and health centre and 68 new homes are to be built at Hawkwood Road.
Former opera star and Poole resident reunites with singing passion
Zara Taken, 91, who lives in The Potteries in Broadstone, was able to enjoy a performance of ‘Madama Butterfly’ at the Pavilion.
Mayor of Ferndown re-elected for third term
Cllr Lawrence Wilson has been re-elected as the Mayor of Ferndown.
Changes to Dorset Council cabinet
There have been one or two changes to Dorset Council’s Cabinet, which the authority says will add clarity to roles.
E-bike rider convicted of Bournemouth rape
The man attacked the 20-year-old woman in the early hours of Sunday 6 July in the area of Undercliff Drive.
Poole man to run four marathons in one day
Breast cancer survivor Paul O’Boyle, from Branksome, is to complete eight laps of the Bournemouth Bay Half Marathon in one day.
Beating of the bounds takes place in Poole
The historic event on Saturday 16 May to mark the boundary of Poole included civic dignitaries and Poole Sea Cadets.
Kate Adie coming to Wimborne Minster
The mayor of Wimborne’s chosen charities will benefit from the evening at the Allendale Community Centre on Friday 17 July.
Blandford brewery opens Community Chest worth £80,000
Voluntary and community organisations are invited to apply for funding from the Hall & Woodhouse Community Chest.
Golden anniversary for Upton Country Park
Events are taking place at the park from 11am on both Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May and entry is free.
REVIEW: And Then There Were None
Decide your next production will be an Agatha Christie play, cast 11 talented actors and build an impressive stage set and you’re onto a winner – and this production certainly is.
Teacher and Miss Dorset finalist calls for dyslexia reform
Lauren Ferger-Andrews, a teacher and Miss Dorset finalist, is campaigning for NHS-funded dyslexia assessments.
Dorset Police urge home security this summer
Burglaries often increase over the summer months, so there are steps you can take to ensure your home is secure.
Ferndown school closes following sickness bug outbreak
Ferndown Middle School has shut early to prevent the spread of illness suspected to be norovirus.
Double win for Poole nursery
Chestnut Nursery won both the Community Service Award and the Best Place to Work Award at the Poole Local Business Awards.
Bournemouth has a big clean-up
Ahead of the summer season, the annual Big Bournemouth Clean-Up, which took place on 13 May, involved many town businesses.
Success for Poole Seaside Scramble
The event, which took place at Baiter Park on 9 May, was a fundraiser for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.
New era for mental health care in Dorset
Chaddesley House, a £23 million inpatient unit at St Ann’s Hospital in Sandbanks, will open at the end of May.
The view inside Julia’s House Children’s Hospice
Take a look inside the Corfe Mullen hospice, which has recently completed a major refurbishment.
Poole school celebrates Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday
Sir David Attenborough celebrated his 100th birthday last week, and his inspiration fired up the imaginations of Yarrells School pupils.
Ferndown Middle School fights to save Lollipop lady
Lollipop lady Sarah Middleton’s role finishes at the end of term, but the headteacher Grant Hopkins is fighting for the job to be retained.
Firefighters tackle Wimborne restaurant blaze
Several firefighter crews and apparatus were summoned to put out a fire at a restaurant in Wimborne Minster.
New councils elected for Broadstone, Bournemouth and Poole
The town council election results were announced on Friday 8 May.
Cash machine break-in at Verwood supermarket
Police believe the perpetrators travelled in a blue or grey BMW and they are seeking witnesses or CCTV footage.
Wimborne Minster holds civic service
Wimborne Minster Town Council held its annual Civic Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 10 May at the Minster church. This was preceded by a parade around the town comprising The Quarterjacks of Wimborne marching band, Wimborne Cadets, standard bearers, civic dignitaries and the MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, Vikki Slade.
Jail for Bournemouth man who assaulted wheelchair user
Members of the public came to the woman’s aid and assisted in apprehending the offender prior to police arriving minutes later.
Motorists in Dorset still driving with no seat belts
In just one week, the initiative found 172 drivers committing offences, including not wearing seat belts and using mobile phones.
Wimborne brings environment to life
There are two final events in Wimborne u3a and Planet Wimborne’s ‘Greener Wimborne, Better Planet’ series in June.
New event promises a taste of Christchurch
Christchurch Rotary Club is launching ‘Dinner About Town’, a unique dining experience taking place in September.
Air Ambulance marks 10 years of blood transfusions
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has delivered pre-hospital emergency blood transfusions for the past 10 years.
Bournemouth residents head to the polls
Elections for the new Bournemouth, Broadstone and Poole Town Councils take place today.
Ringwood man jailed for sexual offences
The offences, which were committed over a period of several months, have resulted in Chad Antony Martin Smedburg being jailed for 10 years.
Parley First School introduces therapeutic classrooms
Outcomes have been positive since headteacher John Bagwell introduced therapeutic classrooms at the beginning of the year.
Traffic signals to be trialled on Grade I listed Wimborne bridge
From Tuesday 26 May until Friday 3 July traffic lights will be in operation on Julian’s Bridge as a trial.
Explore the Thomas Hardy Collection
People can either access the collection online or visit the Dorset History Centre in Dorchester to find out more about the Dorset author.
Could you volunteer as a cat guardian?
Dorset’s homeless cats will soon need new guardians as three core volunteers with over 70 years of experience between them are stepping down.
Dorset welcomes new Tobacco and Vapes Act
Local authorities are delighted that the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 is expected to come into force at the beginning of 2027.
Show stopper gardens at BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair
Thousands of visitors turned up to visit the Spring Fair at Beaulieu in the New Forest over the Bank Holiday weekend of 1-3 May.
Bournemouth Writing Festival beats records
The three-day festival in April saw 100 free and ticketed workshops and many people attending for the first time.
Three Dorset farms failed to store slurry correctly
Three Dorset farm companies have been found to have failed to store slurry correctly following an Environment Agency investigation.
Carmel says goodbye to Poole Hospice
Colleagues and families have paid tribute to Carmel, who worked at Forest Holme Hospice for 13 years, and has now retired.
Ferndown and Parley Rotary celebrates 50th anniversary
The Rotary Club for Ferndown and Parley filled the Great Hall at Canford School for its anniversary celebrations.
Fraud alert for Ferndown
Dorset Police have issued a warning to residents of Ferndown following a report of courier fraud.
Wimborne theatre group invites residents to join its next show
Wimborne Community Theatre will stage a new site-specific production on the Kingston Lacy estate in September.
Collaborative effort to save New Forest tree
Measures have been installed to protect the Queen Oak, which was a sapling at the time of the Black Death.
Dorset Council urges renters to learn about Renters’ Rights Act
The Act, which comes into force on 1 May, will provide more stability for tenants and clarity for landlords.
Man and his pony on an epic hike around Dorset
Roger Sewill and his Dales pony, Scarlet, have almost completed a 200-mile hike around Dorset.
Bournemouth dance teacher celebrates boy dancers
More than 70 boys from across the UK took part in the annual National Boys Dance Day in London.
Dorset funeral director welcomes promise of regulation
Following several harrowing scandals, regulation of the funeral industry, which is in the pipeline, has been welcomed locally.