Alfie Lumb

A walker who fell and suffered a suspected leg fracture on the South West Coast Path in the Undercliffs near Pinhay was rescued by Lyme Regis and Beer coastguards, paramedics and the Hazardous Area Response Team. The casualty was about two kilometres from the nearest access point, requiring a stretcher evacuation through difficult, unstable terrain to a waiting ambulance. Coastguards reminded visitors to take care on uneven paths and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they get into difficulty.

Bridport firefighters are urging the public to remain vigilant as hot, dry weather increases the risk of fires. Bridport Fire Station crews responded to 13 incidents in one week, while Dorset and Wiltshire recorded 277 wildfires in July, the second-highest monthly total in five years. The fire service advises avoiding bonfires and unattended barbecues, disposing of rubbish and cigarettes safely, taking care in dry countryside, staying hydrated, and calling 999 immediately if a fire is spotted.

The eighth Lyme Splash Sea Water Polo Championships returned to Lyme Regis, with 19 teams competing in open-sea matches off the Cobb. Kingston Royals won the men's title 8–4 against Bristol Uni Old Boys, while Sheffield Sharks defeated Devonport 9–5 in the women's final. Organised by Bridport Barracudas Swimming Club and supported by volunteers, local organisations and sponsors, the event was praised for its friendly atmosphere and growing popularity, although tidal constraints left eight teams on the reserve list.

Buckham Fair returned near Beaminster on August 2, 2026, after a break since the COVID-19 pandemic. Organised by Martin Clunes, his wife Philippa and a committee, the event attracted thousands of visitors with dog and horse shows, a fun fair, music, food and artisan stalls. Clunes and actor Neil Morrissey judged the Dog of the Day competition, while proceeds were donated to Dorset County Hospital Charity’s Emergency and Critical Care Appeal. Visitors praised the event, although Clunes said another fair might not take place the following year.

The 44th Burton Bradstock Festival of Music and Art will feature nine concerts across four days, alongside an art exhibition showcasing around 40 artists, crafts, locally sourced sea-glass jewellery and work by the village school’s after-school art group. The programme includes classical, folk and jazz performances, with appearances by Amelia Coburn, Chris Garrick, Lucy Dixon, Anya Zhislin and the Atea Quintet, plus a Wagner gala concert. Festival volunteers are completing preparations, and tickets are available through local tourism services and online.

Bridport Bandits, a youth motorsports club that has operated in Bridport for 35 years, is seeking volunteers ahead of a busy programme including a carnival and a planned winter motor show. The club welcomes adults of any age and gender, with mechanical expertise helpful but not required; fundraising, child protection and event-management skills are especially sought. Chairman John Russell says even a few hours a month would help, warning that without volunteers the club’s future could be at risk. The club also hopes to attract more girls and expand female participation in motorsport.