Cymbeline Young

Eco Natural Products will close its Ashley Road shop in Poole at the end of August after a decade operating in Dorset, citing continuing economic pressures on small independent high-street businesses. Founder Agnieszka Kaczmarek said the business will continue from its warehouse and office at Nuffield Industrial Estate and online, with click-and-collect and a refill station returning there from late September. The shop is offering closing-down discounts of up to 30% and will continue trading from the current premises until closure.

The Rose and Thistle, a 16th-century pub in Fordingbridge, Hampshire, has reopened after two years of closure following its purchase by a local benefactor who leased the freehold to the community. General manager Julianna Boily and head chef Ryan Coulson now oversee the venue with six directors, offering a seasonal British menu built around local ingredients, Sunday roasts and pub classics. The pub plans to host live music, themed events and a special three-course Christmas menu as it begins a new community-backed chapter.

A man in his 60s from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of raping a woman in her 40s at Woodland Walk in Boscombe. Dorset Police said the alleged incident was reported shortly after midnight on August 20 and occurred about three hours earlier. Detectives examined the scene, supported the victim and appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Harry Redknapp is set to make a cameo in Halftime Hero, a film produced by Ridley Scott about the 1994 incident in which Redknapp brought outspoken West Ham supporter Steve Davies onto the pitch during a match against Oxford City. Davies scored as West Ham won 4-0, and the event later became football folklore. Eddie Marsan will portray Redknapp, while Anson Boon and Ellie Bamber are also expected to appear. Production is reportedly already underway.

Recovery driver Kelvin Willis described the fire-scorched A31 as miles of blackened heathland, damaged fencing and an unusually quiet, “eerie” carriageway. He said firefighters and police were still dealing with flare-ups and praised emergency crews for their work. National Highways reported that significant repairs were needed, including replacing at least 1,000 metres of fencing, resurfacing the road and repairing vehicle restraint barriers. The closure was expected to remain in place until at least August 20.

Police are seeking a man believed to be connected with the theft of a wacker plate used during roadworks on Marl Lane in Fordingbridge at around 2 p.m. on July 22. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary released an image of the suspect and asked witnesses or anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Poole artist Cat Suzanna will host a free five-day exhibition from August 18 to 22 at Unit 5 on Waterloo Road in Bournemouth, showcasing rare, bespoke paintings and sculptures. Her animal sculptures use discarded materials such as cardboard, wood and fabric, and the first 100 visitors will receive a free art print. Suzanna is also planning sea- and mythical-creature-inspired work and accepts commissions.

A GoFundMe appeal is raising money for Mark Campbell, a former Bournemouth-based colour sergeant with The Rifles who served in Afghanistan and taught jungle warfare in Brunei. Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in 2021, Campbell now requires daily care and is largely confined to an armchair. Claire Hudson, head of welfare at The Rifles' regimental headquarters, launched the appeal to help Campbell and his family create meaningful experiences, while also undertaking Tough Mudder to raise additional funds. Campbell expressed gratitude for the public's generosity and hopes to spend time with his family while he remains able.

Dorset's coroner is appealing to the public for information that could help locate the next of kin of Phillip Andrew Rogers, a 73-year-old man who died at his home in St Clements Gardens, Bournemouth. His death is not considered suspicious, and no police investigation is required. Members of the public with information about his family are asked to contact the coroner's office.

A fire along the A31 has scorched about 400 acres of New Forest heathland, prompting warnings that the habitat could take decades to recover and that some rare species may be lost or recover only slowly. New Forest National Park Authority ranger Gillie Molland highlighted the ecological importance of the heathland, its role as grazing land for commoners’ animals, and the risks to species including Dartford warblers and nightjars. She urged the public not to use barbecues, fires or stoves in the open countryside, to avoid dropping glass and to extinguish cigarettes fully, while praising emergency services and Forestry England for their response.

The South Coast Wine Festival will return to the grounds of Highcliffe Castle from August 14 to 16, offering more than 300 wines, a two-hour tasting session, independent food and drink traders, live entertainment and educational talks. The programme includes a Luke Combs tribute act on Friday, a George Michael-themed Over 30s Garden Party on Saturday, and wine and hospitality speakers including Charlie Stein, Martha Armitage and Adam Odor on Sunday. Founder Simone Ippolito and marketing director Matt Maclean say the festival has been expanded to create a broader all-day experience while keeping wine tasting at its core. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets directly through the festival website because demand is high.

Police released CCTV images of three men sought in connection with the theft of 11 tins of baby milk and six bottles of champagne, worth a total of £455, from a Co-op on High Street in Fordingbridge. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary provided descriptions of the suspects and asked anyone with information to contact police via 101 or an online report.

Seventeen-year-old Olly Shipton has completed his initial training at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate and is set to join the Royal Artillery, following his older brother Louis, who serves with 32 Regiment Royal Artillery. Olly says he was motivated by family tradition, the opportunity to develop skills, travel and build a career, while describing the training as demanding but rewarding. His family, particularly Louis, has provided support and inspiration as he begins his military career.

Billy Banks, 33, of Poole, was sentenced to a total of six years and one month in prison after filming himself setting a lurcher-type dog on a live rabbit and kicking the animal to prolong the attack. He pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal and was also convicted in connection with the supply of class A drugs and possession of criminal property. Banks was banned from owning or keeping dogs, rabbits or hares for ten years. Dorset Police said the social-media footage enabled officers to identify and prosecute him.

A man in his 40s was taken to Southampton General Hospital after being assaulted outside The Broadway, a Greene King-managed pub on Castle Lane West in Bournemouth. Police are investigating, while the South Western Ambulance Service said it sent an ambulance, air ambulance and critical care team. Greene King said those involved were not believed to be pub patrons and that the incident occurred outside the venue.

Two people were arrested after Dorset Police officers executed a warrant at a property in Bournemouth following concerns raised by the community. Supported by firearms and dog units, the Bournemouth North Neighbourhood Policing Team seized a significant quantity of cannabis, suspected Class A drugs and several offensive weapons. Police said the operation demonstrates their commitment to tackling drug-related crime and urged the public to report suspected criminal activity.

Dusty Boots Line Dancing will launch a Friday Night Honky Tonk at the S Bomb vintage motorcycle workshop in Poole on August 7. Sisters and founders Sian Antoinette Short and Tamara Short will lead a beginner-friendly class from 7pm, followed by free country, honky-tonk and Southern rock music from DJ Cliff Knows Country from 9.30pm. The event reflects the group’s rapid growth and its broader programme of weekly classes across the New Forest.

A dinosaur installation from Christchurch BID’s Roarsome Dinosaur Trail was significantly vandalised outside the Regent Centre, with its head sawn off and stolen. Dorset Police are reviewing CCTV and appealing for witnesses, particularly two women seen nearby, while Christchurch BID condemned the incident and urged anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

The Nelson Tavern in Mudeford, Christchurch, is due to reopen on August 7 after a £50,000 refurbishment funded by licensee Joe Winduss and Admiral Taverns. Improvements include new furnishings, kitchen and cellar upgrades, four flat-screen televisions and a revamped beer garden, with further interior and exterior investment planned for late 2026 and early 2027. The pub will offer homemade food featuring locally sourced seafood, a broad drinks menu, and a family- and dog-friendly environment. Planned community activities include live music, quizzes, bingo and fundraising for the RNLI, The Fishermen’s Mission and The Burnt Chef Project.

Lush has launched a beauty therapy apprenticeship scheme aimed at 16- to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training. Initially offered at its London spas in partnership with Armonia, the 30-hour-per-week programme pays £14.80 per hour and leads to nationally recognised Level 2 and Level 3 beauty therapy qualifications. Lush plans to expand the scheme across England.

An eyewitness reported seeing a group of men engaging in sexual activity openly on a beach area in Studland while other men watched, raising concerns because the path is used by families and children. Dorset Police confirmed receiving a report of an indecent act near Ferry Road and said enquiries were ongoing.

London competitive eater Max Stanford completed Bournemouth restaurant Funki Griller’s 100oz Beast Challenge in 25 minutes and four seconds, becoming the first person to attempt it and setting the inaugural record. The meal consists of a 100-ounce rump steak, 1kg of chips, 14 onion rings and mixed salad, with participants given 60 minutes to finish. Restaurant owner Isileli Joe Tuivai said the event attracted a large crowd and invited other customers to try the challenge.

The Red Shoot Inn in the New Forest is hosting a spaniel meet-up and group dog walk on September 12 to raise funds for Spaniel Aid, which rescues and rehomes spaniels. The event will include refreshments, a dog-friendly bar and a doggie bar, while the pub is also offering discounted weekday lunches, limited free morning parking and a Saturday nature scavenger hunt in response to reduced trade following the introduction of National Park parking charges.

Former professional rugby player David Jackson plans to run a 50-kilometre ultramarathon every day for 100 consecutive days, aiming to surpass the current men’s record of 80 days and raise £1 million for brain-injury charities Headway UK and Head for Change. Jackson, whose rugby career ended after a traumatic brain injury, will run in Bournemouth for four days from Swanage Beach, with members of the public invited to join sections of the route. Donations can be made through Givestar under “Mission -IN-possible”.

The Avon Social Club in Charminster is celebrating its centenary with a weekend of events from August 7 to 9, including live music, a darts competition and a garden fête. The club is highlighted as an important part of the local community and as the venue where Tony Hancock gave his first professional performance. Tombola proceeds from the celebrations will be donated to Guide Dogs UK.

Broadstone Town Council is inviting residents to attend two public consultation sessions about potential safety improvements at the Dunyeats Road junction following serious accidents and community concerns. Residents will review possible measures and indicate which options they support. The feedback will be shared with BCP Council, which has responsibility for the highway and will consider the junction’s future.

A range of events is scheduled across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, including a craft fair and charity walk on August 2, Bike Nights and live music on August 4, summer fireworks on Poole Quay on August 6, and Bluey's Big Play at the Pavilion Theatre from August 6 to 9. Professor William's Punch and Judy Show will also continue at Sandbanks Beach on selected school-holiday dates.

Poole Park, Christchurch Quay and Hengistbury Head are recommended as three of the best picnic destinations across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. The locations offer varied experiences, including parkland and lake views, riverside scenery, and coastal landscapes with nature trails and wildlife, making them suitable for families, friends and visitors during the summer holidays.

Dorset Police are investigating the reported theft of a black Nissan Qashqai from Cromer Road in Poole and have released images of two men they want to identify. The vehicle was later found and recovered by its owner in Lansdowne Mews, Bournemouth. Police are asking anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers.

A fire caused by a faulty cooker and gas canisters tore through an upper-floor beach hut on Sandbanks beach. Fire crews attended in large numbers, secured surrounding damaged huts, extinguished the blaze and safely removed the gas canisters. No one was injured, and police said there was no wider risk to the public while asking people to avoid the immediate area.

A man in his 50s was assaulted and taken to hospital after intervening when a suspected shoplifter fled a One Stop store on Barrack Road in Christchurch. The suspect, described as a white man with messy black hair carrying a large black holdall, allegedly took personal belongings from the victim. Dorset Police are reviewing CCTV and asking witnesses, motorists with dashcam footage, and people who helped pursue the suspect to contact them.

Two men allegedly damaged five vehicles by smashing their windscreens and windows on Good Road in Poole at around 4:30 a.m. on July 21. Dorset Police searched the area but did not find the suspects, who were described as wearing black and grey clothing. Police Constable Alice Beavon is appealing for witnesses, CCTV, doorbell-camera and dashcam footage, with information requested through Dorset Police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Dorset Police are investigating a reported assault in which a young woman was allegedly attacked and kicked in the head by a group of around six people outside an Asda store on St Pauls Road near Bournemouth train station. The force is appealing for the unidentified victim to come forward and asking anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Swanage Carnival has begun an eight-day programme of colourful events, opening with an aerobatic display by Team Raven and a flypast by a 1942 Dakota aircraft. Thousands of visitors are expected to attend activities including art competitions, beach yoga, live music, a silent disco and traditional carnival displays. Organisers praised the community, volunteers and local groups involved, while sponsor HK Law said the event helps bring people together and raise money for local charities.

Police, paramedics and railway staff responded to a welfare concern on the tracks between Lymington Pier and Brockenhurst. The individual was taken to a place of safety, while power was switched off and all services were suspended. Power was restored at about 11:30 p.m., allowing trains to resume before the lines fully reopened later that evening.

An 18-year-old driver and a passenger in his 20s were seriously injured when their green Ford Fiesta left Beaulieu Road near Brockenhurst and struck bollards and fencing. Both men were taken to hospital. Hampshire Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage, citing reference number 44260354613.

Dorset Council approved Guy Ritchie’s plan to convert accommodation at Compton Abbas Airfield into short‑term holiday lets, despite objections from residents concerned about increased commercial activity and environmental impact. Planning officials said the project would bring economic benefits and confirmed the units can only be used as holiday rentals. Residents and monitoring groups argued the airfield is becoming overly commercialised within a sensitive rural landscape.

Animal rights activists from Dorset Animal Action continue to call for Bournemouth’s Oceanarium to close, alleging inadequate conditions and poor animal welfare. The group demands transparency over animal acquisition records and cites unanswered Freedom of Information requests to BCP Council. The council states that previously identified welfare issues were resolved. The Oceanarium disputes activists’ claims about mortality rates and asserts its care practices exceed industry norms, highlighting conservation and education efforts.

A Which? survey ranked Bournemouth and Poole in the lower half of UK seaside destinations, with Bournemouth scoring 59 percent and Poole 64 percent, both falling from previous years. Respondents rated Bournemouth highly for its beach but poorly for parking, value for money and peace and quiet, while Poole scored better overall. Visiting tourists offered positive comments about their experience despite cost concerns. BCP Council defended the area, highlighting visitor numbers, natural beauty and strong beach rankings on Tripadvisor, while acknowledging funding pressures and local challenges. Swanage performed best in Dorset, placing 19th nationally with strong ratings across most categories.

BCP Council is investing £500,000 in an 8.5km maintenance project on the A3049 Dorset Way between Holes Bay North and Mannings Heath roundabouts, aiming to prevent future potholes and avoid a far costlier full resurfacing. The works, scheduled from July 25 to September 21, will be carried out in phases involving night closures, surface repairs and protective surface dressing. Officials say the preventative approach follows national guidance and will minimise long-term disruption, with efforts made to schedule work overnight and on weekends to reduce inconvenience for drivers.

A Poole-based father, Alastair Duncan, has created Pubs with Playgrounds, a free mobile app designed to help families find child‑friendly pubs and hotels across the UK. The app, which began as a shared Google map among friends, now lists 875 venues offering features such as playgrounds, indoor play areas, children’s menus and high chairs. Duncan aims to build a community-driven directory where parents can add venues and pub owners can update listings. Launched ahead of the summer holidays, the app is available for free on iPhone and Android.

A mother from Burley and her two sons were rescued after being pulled out to sea by a rip current at Highcliffe beach. She described the incident as terrifying and said the family was moments from drowning until bystanders intervened. The RNLI emphasised water safety awareness and advised swimmers to use lifeguarded beaches and follow its Float to Live guidance.

Police continue searching for 31‑year‑old Christopher, last seen near Cascades Shopping Centre in Portsmouth before travelling to Bournemouth, where a later sighting was reported. Dorset Police released a CCTV image and urged the public to share any information about his whereabouts.

A public survey of 1,068 Dorset residents found strong majority support for the planned rollout of live facial recognition technology, with 74 percent backing its use and 23 percent opposing. Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick emphasised its potential for crime detection and protecting vulnerable people, while acknowledging lower support among younger residents and ethnic minority groups and calling for targeted engagement. The consultation showed higher familiarity with the technology than the national average, and the findings will guide Dorset Police as they implement the system later this year.

A Bournemouth steakhouse marked its 15th anniversary by raising over £1,500 for Macmillan Cancer Support through a charity walk to Sandbanks and a large steak‑eating challenge involving local fitness and business figures. The fundraising carried personal meaning for staff connected to individuals affected by cancer. The venue thanked customers and the community for their support.

Four men entered a Sainsbury’s store in Winton and stole alcohol and meat after one of them demanded money from the till, though no cash was taken. Dorset Police released CCTV images of the suspects and appealed for information, with Police Constable Kieshia Summers urging the public to help identify the individuals involved.

Police detained a man reportedly seen with an axe in Charlton Marshall after receiving a call about a possible head injury. Officers found the man, provided first aid and transported him to a hospital, with inquiries ongoing. Community reports suggested he had been running through the area with blood on his face, though police have not confirmed whether he was carrying an axe when detained.

Two boys aged 16 and 17 from Bournemouth were arrested in Purewell, Christchurch after allegedly threatening a man with a knife. Dorset Police reported that the victim was unharmed and officers quickly detained the pair on suspicion of possessing a bladed article in a public place.

James Knight was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court to more than five years in prison for running a fraudulent landscaping business that took £42,000 in deposits across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire before abandoning jobs or delivering substandard work. Victims reported incomplete and poorly executed projects, with some receiving no work at all. After initially denying the charges, Knight pleaded guilty to most counts, and a judge ruled he acted dishonestly throughout. He was also issued an eight-year Criminal Behaviour Order preventing him from offering or advertising services.

Two men aged 18 and 20 were arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm after a man in his 20s was stabbed at Bournemouth Pier Approach. The victim was taken to Poole Hospital with non-life‑threatening injuries. A police cordon was established as Dorset Police launched an investigation. Local MP Jessica Toale expressed concern over public safety and highlighted government efforts to reduce knife crime, while Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick urged witnesses to come forward. Emergency services responded with multiple units, transporting one patient to hospital.

Two men aged 20 and 18 were arrested on suspicion of inflicting grievous bodily harm after a man in his 20s was stabbed near Bournemouth’s Pier Approach late on 7 July 2026. The victim was taken to hospital with non‑life‑threatening injuries. Officers quickly responded, detained the suspects and established a police cordon while inquiries continued.

The 37th Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride drew 215 cyclists completing routes up to 58 miles to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, with hopes of exceeding £20,000 in donations. Organizer Peter Smith Nicholls highlighted the emotional impact of hearing participants’ cancer stories and praised the volunteers who ensure the ride’s success. The event has raised more than £1.6 million since its inception, with support this year from Aldi Fleets Lane Poole, Corfe Mullen Town Council, and local Guides.

Police are investigating a weekend heath fire in the Coldharbour area of Wareham that is being treated as suspicious and are appealing for witnesses who may have seen unusual activity on the afternoon of July 4, 2026. No injuries were reported, and Dorset Police are working with Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue to determine the cause. Information can be submitted directly to police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.