Author: Andrew Smith
Sheps Steps top priority after North Swanage residents voice concern Replacing the steps down to the beach at Sheps Hollow in Swanage, which were swept away by storms, has emerged as a top short term priority. 
Campaign kicks off for second dementia nurse for Purbeck A £100,000 fundraising appeal has been launched to fund another Admiral nurse - a registered nurse who specialises in dementia - due to the increasing demand in Purbeck, Dorset. 
Campaign launches to make Swanage skatepark best in Dorset An ambitious fundraiser to refurbish the popular skatepark in Swanage has just gone live and there’s an open day planned for everyone to come and have a go. 
Hidden heart of Swanage launches new campaign to woo visitors Independent and artisan businesses in a tucked away part of Swanage town centre in Dorset, are hoping a new initiative will help shoppers beat a path to their door. 
Swanage RNLI joins night time rescue mission as yacht catches fire Swanage lifeboat volunteers answered a late night call for help on Saturday 13th April 2024 after a yacht caught fire in Poole Harbour. 
Three weeks of roadworks to begin in Corfe Castle Just in time for the new school term, a three-week lane closure on the A351 at Corfe Castle begins on Monday 15th April 2024. 
Scare for Skippy inspired Swanage’s new animal ambulance A new 24 hour pet ambulance service has been launched by Swanage woman Charlotte Walker after her boxer dog nearly died in a late night emergency. 
Swanage fire crews to make a splash with charity car wash Crew members at Swanage Fire Station are to turn their hoses on cars instead of fires for one day only - to raise money for The Fire Fighters Charity. 
Swanage information team strikes gold at regional tourism awards Swanage Information Centre has officially been declared best in the West - just in time for the start of the 2024 tourist season. 
Future in doubt for Wareham Sheddies after eviction threat Talented woodworkers are facing an uncertain time as an eviction wrangle leaves their future in Purbeck very much in the balance. 
Remembering the fallen heroes of Studland’s Exercise Smash Hundreds of people gathered on the beaches of Studland in Dorset to remember those who risked their life testing an experimental floating tank. 
More Purbeck visitors urged to take trip to Brownsea With the National Trust now running its own ferry from the jetty at Sandbanks, it’s hoping to encourage more people to explore Brownsea Island in Dorset. 
Former Dr Who to appear on stage in Swanage Regenerating as one half of a famous crime solving partnership, a former Dr Who will be teaming up in Swanage with a previous mortal enemy. 
D-Day 80th anniversary to be marked by tank patrol at Studland An amphibious World War Two tank will once again roll onto the beaches of Studland Bay, 80 years after a major training exercise was held there to prepare for D-Day. 
Refurbished Kimmeridge museum reopens with queues for star exhibit After a five week shutdown for a £220,000 refit of its Jurassic era fossil displays, The Etches Collection at Kimmeridge in Dorset has reopened just in time for Easter. 
Holi smoke! New landmark event in Corfe Castle’s history For the first time, an official Hindu celebration has been held at a National Trust property, and the festival at Corfe Castle in Dorset was a joy-filled success. 
New home for Swanage food bank as churches rally to the rescue Swanage food bank is on the move after the surprise closure of the Salvation Army Church building. 
Proposed Swanage seaweed farm takes care not to make waves A seaweed farm more than a mile off the Swanage coast could help to lead a revolution in aquaculture if it is granted permission to go ahead later this year. 
Splash of colour for jolly Holi day at Corfe Castle Bright colours at Corfe Castle in Dorset this spring will have less to do with daffodils or bluebells, but more to do with a festival in which rainbow paints are ... 
Entrepreneurs widen Swanage’s dining choices with new venture A new food destination called The Narrows has just opened in Swanage’s historic High Street, which is fast becoming a thriving hub of activity again. 
New chapter in store for Corfe Castle village shop A Dorset village store with a 300 year history is passing into new hands as the couple who rescued it from ruin 10 years ago are retiring to see the ... 
Busiest year ever for Dorset Search and Rescue as incidents double A charity that helps find missing people in Dorset, including Purbeck, is marking its 20th anniversary by calling for more volunteers. 
More jazz for Swanage as new club launches The opening night of a new jazz club at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club was a sellout success, attracting world class stars to Swanage in Dorset. 
Home grown Swanage talent makes artistic splash at The Mowlem Self taught Swanage artist Josh Hollingshead has been around the world to find inspiration for his paintings - and is now in high demand at home. 
Swanage family’s fund raising thank you for saving their baby’s life Swanage parents Rob and Alice Cattle are on a fund raising mission to thank those who helped as their baby daughter fought for her life. 
Swanage cancer charity founders honoured with top Rotary award An evening of celebration was held by Swanage and Purbeck Rotary to thank everyone who helped it raise more than £36,000, as well as recognising the work of two remarkable ... 
Happy hour again as house martins get new nests in Purbeck With spring just around the corner, families in Wareham are getting ready to give some flying visitors from Africa brand new homes to move into. 
Oil well at Wytch Farm to be shut down within four years Oil company Perenco UK says it will start to close down operations at Wytch Farm near Corfe Castle in Dorset from the end of 2027 as oil reserves begin to ... 
Top comedians film at Purbeck’s Square and Compass pub TV and stage comics Bill Bailey and Paul Merton stopped off for a pint in Worth Matravers in Dorset on a mission to get men to talk about mental health. 
From Swanage Pier to the cloud, community radio moves online Former Purbeck Coast community radio station presenter Lex McKee is back on air again and others are expected to join him. 
Warm Swanage welcome lifts the blues for UK coast walker Generous Swanage families made a real impression on round the UK coast walker Blue Wilson when her 11,000 mile journey took her into Purbeck. 
Unsung heroes shine as Swanage Railway celebrates its volunteers The magnificent work done by hundreds of Swanage Railway volunteers took centre stage at a special community weekend. 
Popular Swanage festival scales up to cater for all tastes The Swanage Fish Festival is back with new branding for summer 2024 following its triumphant return last year after a three year absence. 
Swanage lifeboat crew search for missing man Both Swanage lifeboats were launched together to help search for a missing person in the early hours of the morning of Thursday 15th February 2024. 
A final farewell as Swanage based radio station closes Purbeck Coast radio has broadcast for the last time from its base on Swanage Pier - but even as the station went off air, its last words were ‘We’ll be ... 
Second home tax to help build affordable houses in Purbeck Double council tax is to be charged on all second home owners in Swanage and across Dorset from 1st April 2025. 
Swanage’s new florist shop opens for Valentine’s Day Fulfilling a lifelong ambition, a new florist shop is opening in Swanage and it's just in time for one of the busiest days of the year. 
Sea Rex museum to shut for a month as crowds flock to Purbeck A Purbeck fossil museum has set a staggering new record for visitors since the BBC screened a show about its new star attraction - but is now about to close ... 
Purbeck pupils fix up new homes for hedgehogs Hedgehogs waking up from hibernation are in for a treat at Sandford St Martin's School, where pupils are making homes to keep them safe, warm and well fed. 
Official launch for new Purbeck cider with a golden touch A new cider for Purbeck to treasure has been created, with the intention of making it the flagship drink of Dorset. 
Langton Matravers becomes Dorset’s first 20 mph village Twenty will have to be plenty for all traffic through Langton Matravers in future, as the village’s fight for a 20 mph zone has finally been won. 
Purbeck’s human fish Oly Rush plans new world record swim Purbeck waste warrior Oly Rush is ready to push his body to the limit in a 60 hour, world record setting swim - to bring global attention to the state ... 
Natural beauty of Purbeck drives golf course into top 100 The restoration of heathland and a rewilding scheme has helped propel the Isle of Purbeck golf club near Swanage in Dorset, into a list of the UK’s top 100 golf ... 
Sheila’s grand gesture to Swanage heroes who saved her life Swanage woman Sheila Walker has presented £1,000 to the medical heroes who saved her life after an everyday medicine sent her into anaphylactic shock. 
Mummer Mia – young actors sought to keep alive Purbeck’s oldest plays The ancient Dorset tradition of a folk performance called a mummers play was revived at Purbeck Cider Company’s wassail weekend. 
Cancer charity creates new sanctuary garden for Swanage Work has begun to landscape a forgotten corner of Prince Albert Gardens in Swanage, Dorset, funded by a legacy left to Purbeck cancer charity Cancare. 
Beavers in Studland due to likely unlawful release Evidence has been discovered indicating that Studland in Dorset has been ‘beaver bombed’ - the intentional and unsanctioned release of beavers into the wild, in defiance of government policy. 
Swanage Railway offers locals half price tickets for weekend Volunteers at Swanage Railway are to give the public a rare chance to see behind the scenes of the award winning heritage railway - with half price train tickets available ... 
Purbeck storm damage under spotlight as BBC Winterwatch returns BBC’s Winterwatch team is back broadcasting live from RSPB Arne in Dorset, featuring the destruction caused by the worst winter storms in years. 
Cider company seeks to banish evil spirits with ancient custom A centuries old tradition is being brought to life once more in the orchards of Purbeck to ensure a good crop of apples in autumn. 
Planning upset for new luxury resort in Studland Plans for a £65 million rebuild of Studland’s much loved Knoll House Hotel, creating 86 new jobs, have been refused by Dorset Council. 
Two month road closure between Swanage and Langton starts Drivers trying to travel the short distance between Swanage and Langton Matravers in Dorset are now facing a 20 minute diversion, as work begins to replace an ageing water main. 
Gull friends needed for Swanage bird survey Volunteers from Swanage and across Purbeck are being sought to help carry out a winter survey of the number of gulls, commonly called seagulls, amid fears that numbers are in ... 
BBC returns to RSPB Arne for live Winterwatch shows A team of 60 camera crew, engineers and producers from the BBC are heading back to RSPB Arne near Wareham in Dorset for a week in January 2024 to broadcast ... 
Purbeck volunteers who save chickens around the cluck More than 25,000 hens have been saved by a Purbeck family after they set up Chicken Rescue UK less than two years ago. 
Purbeck forester branches out with Tree of the Week website The popular Tree of the Week social media posts which started out as a joke by a Purbeck woodland manager, have expanded into artwork and now there's a new website. 
What happened in Swanage this year? Review of 2023 In many people’s eyes, 2023 will go down as a washout year, with seemingly endless rain and storms - yet the national picture of Swanage is likely to be of ... 
Purbeck’s deadly Sea Rex to go on display at Kimmeridge museum The day after Sir David Attenborough tells the world about the most dangerous creature ever to swim along the Jurassic Coast, visitors to The Etches Collection in Kimmeridge, Dorset will ... 
Spirit of Swanage delivers Christmas gift for Emily Brave Swanage teenager Emily McDonald will be flying out to the USA in the New Year for life changing treatment - thanks to the generosity of Purbeck fundraisers. 
Worth Matravers church roof fund hits target in time for Christmas The perfect Christmas present is about to be delivered to Saint Nick in Worth Matravers - news that a £600,000 appeal for the church in his name has been reached. 
Santa’s Christmas donkeys return to Swanage Pier Swanage Pier has been busy putting the magic into Christmas with the help of Santa, his elves and some very special donkeys. 
Twenty year battle to build Purbeck wind farm is finally over A wind and solar farm which will generate enough power to run every home in Purbeck has finally been completed. 
Business is blooming in Swanage town centre Bucking the national trend of empty shop units, Swanage in Dorset is seeing lots more new businesses opening up in the heart of the seaside town. 
Inspiring Christmas trees at Swanage festival A dazzling display of decorated trees is delighting visitors to the Emmanuel Baptist Church in Swanage, for the annual Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival. 
Enchanted evenings light up Purbeck secret garden Dark December nights have just become a little more magical at Carey’s Secret Garden near Wareham in Dorset, with hundreds of multi coloured festive lights sparkling throughout the grounds. 
Don’t buy e-scooters for Xmas, warns Dorset Police commissioner Families in Swanage and across Purbeck have been advised not to buy electric scooters as Christmas presents or run the risk of having them confiscated. 
New look Swanage Christmas market attracts more visitors The much larger Swanage Christmas Street Market has been hailed as a great success after expanding along into Institute Road for the first time. 
BBC snubs Purbeck by filming Enid Blyton stories in Cornwall A new series of Enid Blyton’s Famous Five stories is to be broadcast on the BBC - but has been filmed hundreds of miles away from the Purbeck countryside which ... 
Traffic diversion planned for super sized Swanage Christmas market Swanage Christmas Street Market is back bigger and better than ever for 2023 - but its expansion means motorists will have to take more care getting through to the south ... 
Restaurant with perfect view of Swanage Bay to open in 2024 Four family friends from a Swanage catering company in Dorset are about to open their first restaurant overlooking the bay - and feel that the Covid pandemic is actually to ... 
Langton road works to cause 7 mile detour for 2 months A major £150,000 scheme to replace a failing water pipe will close the main road through Langton Matravers in Dorset for two months. 
Co-op shoppers help raise huge windfall for Swanage groups Three good causes in Swanage have benefited to the tune of more than £24,000 thanks to the Co-op supermarket’s annual local community fund event. 
Yule feel festive as concerts fill St Mary’s Church with joy Two choirs are to bring the joys of the season to St Mary’s Church in Swanage, Dorset with concerts of festive music. 
Dormice disappear from Purbeck as new survey reveals shock results One of Britain’s most iconic mammals, the hazel dormouse, has all but disappeared from Purbeck in Dorset. 
Swanage theatre seeks new blood with help from its friends Young adults are being invited to connect with The Mowlem as part of a new scheme to invigorate the Swanage arts centre - and it won’t cost them a penny. 
Armistice event for Tank Museum as director leaves after 17 years The Tank Museum at Bovington is hosting a special Armistice event to honour the part that tanks played in winning the First World War. 
Durlston photo exhibition unwraps thorny question of rewilding A challenging exhibition on rewilding has just opened at Durlston Country Park - where the idea has already been practised for generations. 
Open meetings to share ideas about future of Studland Bay Purbeck residents are being invited to attend two open meetings to say why Studland Bay is so important to them – just two weeks after Storm Ciarán caused huge damage ... 
Crisis at Swanage Railway as £450,000 survival fund is launched A second fundraising appeal in three years to save Swanage Railway has been launched due to rising operating costs and declining passenger numbers, alongside management changes and a costcutting exercise. 
Police in photo plea to identify body found in Studland Dorset Police have made a public appeal for help identifying a man whose body was found near a tent pitched in Goathorn Woods, Studland. 
Christmas gifts Allsort’d at new Swanage shop A brand new retail outlet in Swanage in Dorset is showcasing the artistic talents of Allsort’d, a group of local young adults with learning disabilities and associated difficulties. 
Fit for life as new outdoor gym opens in Studland An outdoor gym has opened in Studland to help locals stay fit and has already proved a huge success with villagers of all ages. 
Swanage based letter writing society celebrates global success A letter writing phenomenon which started life in Swanage in 2017, has now stamped its presence on all seven continents of the world. 
Bridgerton artist shares his world vision in Swanage exhibition Swanage concept artist Lewis Peake, who's helped create TV worlds from Bridgerton's Regency London to the Game of Thrones universe, has brought his own world view to The Mowlem. 
New restaurant brings the flavours of the Med to Swanage The taste of the Mediterranean is coming to Swanage when a new restaurant opens in Station Road in November 2023. 
Candles light up Swanage beach for warm hearted charity event Poignant memories of loved ones, gone but not forgotten, were reignited on Swanage Beach when one of the town's most moving events returned for 2023. 
New Holme for The Salt Pig in Purbeck Two Purbeck businesses with a passion for sustainability are joining forces to boost the farm shop at a garden centre, well known for its pioneering approach to business. 
Swanage band Galaxy Thief gets big break with star performer Finishing a whirlwind year with the biggest indoor show of their career so far, Swanage band Galaxy Thief has been picked to support a popular singer songwriter at Poole’s Lighthouse. 
Swanage workshop with art and soul turns 10 years old An arts group which was set up to offer friendship and care alongside traditional crafts has found such a rich seam of support that it's now celebrating its 10th anniversary. 
Neighbourhorse Watch scheme trotted out for Purbeck A mounted version of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme has been launched by Dorset Police, giving horse riders an official role in helping to make Purbeck villages safer. 
Gourd heavens – Purbeck pumpkin festival proves massive success A pumpkin festival tradition of 30 years has been rebooted at one of the most popular pubs in the West - and attracted a huge crowd. 
Threat of closure for Swanage based community radio station Swanage Pier Trust which runs Purbeck Coast 101.2 FM, says the community radio station is struggling to continue due to a lack of funding. 
Swanage Carnival’s charity gifts go down a storm Swanage Carnival committee brought sunshine to 20 local charities by handing out more than £27,000 from summer's somewhat rain soaked success. 
Swanage Railway’s newly restored Victorian T3 loco officially launched An occasion that turned the clocks back to the heyday of Victorian steam travel, was held at Swanage Railway to celebrate the T3 locomotive class 563 hauling its first passenger ... 
Significant cocaine haul recovered in Swanage Bay A large quantity of cocaine was recovered by police and brought ashore in Swanage on Friday 6th October 2023 - one of three similar finds off Purbeck shores in a ... 
Film Festival honours Swanage schoolboy who made millions smile One of Swanage’s most famous school pupils is being celebrated at the 2023 Purbeck Film Festival - and it's bound to bring a smile to many. 
Swanage gets share of £3 million to tackle coastal erosion A share of a £3 million grant from the government to Dorset Council is to go towards reducing the risk of coastal erosion in the North Beach area of Swanage. 
New monument marks site of world first for Langton Matravers A historic event has been marked in Langton Matravers with a Purbeck stone plaque - the first time ever that Earth’s three norths have converged in the UK. 
Purbeck coasteering death was misadventure, inquest jury decides A father of two who drowned while coasteering with Swanage outdoor adventure company Land & Wave died as a result of misadventure. 
Supermarket to open new convenience store in Swanage Convenience store McColl's is closing in Swanage - but the shop is to reopen as a mini Morrisons supermarket with a promise to deliver value. 
Empty nesters hope for return of Purbeck ospreys in 2024 Staff at a Purbeck nature reserve have waved off their most famous family on a trip fraught with danger to Africa. 
Time Team digs for answers about Iron Age Purbeck One of Britain’s best loved TV series has taken up a three-day archaeology challenge near Corfe Castle in Dorset. 
Corfe Castle’s tiny museum gets massive makeover Dorset’s smallest museum, telling the story of Corfe Castle village, has a big future ahead of it following an 18-month revamp. 
For peat’s sake – Purbeck bogs to be rewet and restored A £1 million project to reinstate Dorset’s historic peatlands will start in autumn 2023 with half of the work taking place in Purbeck. 
Campaign to save Swanage Pier turnstile hits target in days A crowdfunding campaign launched to save an historic cast iron turnstile from Swanage Pier in Dorset has reached its target inside three days. 
Spotlight on Studland’s Fort Henry over heritage week An important piece of World War Two history in Studland in Dorset, is to be shown off to the public as part of English Heritage’s week of open days. 
Thousands enjoy Swanage Folk Festival despite sweltering heat Huge crowds thronged the seafront at Swanage in Dorset to watch the UK’s largest collection of Morris and folk dance sides on the hottest day of 2023 so far. 
Invader crabs muscle their way onto Purbeck beaches A new species of crab to the Purbeck Coast is beginning to make itself at home among the rockpools - and may edge out the sitting tenants. 
£70,000 fundraiser to free brave Swanage teen from extreme pain When sporty Swanage teenager Emily McDonald went into hospital to have her appendix out, it led to a living nightmare. 
Demolition team to help Studland’s Middle Beach return to nature Diggers are all set to move in and break up the concrete base of the old Middle Beach cafe at Studland in Dorset, as the next step in returning the ... 
Open air dance event to celebrate natural beauty of Swanage A contemporary dance company is to present two free open air performances in Swanage in Dorset to shed light on its natural beauty - and audiences will be at the ... 
TV star backs RNLI campaign after terrifying ordeal at Durdle Door BAFTA winning actress Joanna Scanlan has spoken publicly for the first time about how she nearly drowned while swimming at Durdle Door in Dorset. 
Flagging up excellence at Swanage’s pitch perfect park Beach Gardens in Swanage in Dorset has proudly taken its place in a prestigious list of Britain’s best green spaces. 
National magazine focuses in on Swanage photographers A friendly photographic club with an emphasis on making the most of the stunning Swanage and Purbeck scenery has been featured in a national magazine. 
Studland invests in outdoor gym for older people A new outdoor exercise park is about to be installed at Studland in Dorset aimed at helping adults and particularly the older generation to stay fit and healthy. 
No rest after busy Lifeboat Week for Swanage crews After a busy lifeboat week, Swanage RNLI volunteers were hoping for an early night - until they were called on to help search for a missing person. 
Dino-mite movie night on Jurassic rocks at Swanage Purbeck Film Festival showed it is in no danger of becoming extinct with a special 30th anniversary showing of Jurassic Park on the Swanage cliffs where dinosaurs once roamed. 
Swanage family have lucky escape from night time blaze A Swanage family had a lucky escape from their blazing home thanks to working smoke alarms which woke them up in the early hours. 
A boatiful end to a wonderful week for Swanage RNLI There was a splashing finale to Swanage RNLI’s Lifeboat Week when the annual build a boat competition and race drew a crowd of thousands to town. 
A sunny Swanage Bank Holiday? That’s the way to do it! Weather forecasts for a mini heatwave to end August 2023 have come as especially welcome news for one Swanage beach business. 
Fancy that! FiFi’s repeats a Swanage window win from 1976 A nostalgic moment of inspiration has helped long established Swanage fancy dress shop FiFi’s to repeat a winning moment from nearly 50 years ago. 
Road closure to trial a new traffic free section of Swanage seafront Another section of Swanage’s seafront will be closed to traffic during Lifeboat Week to see how pedestrianisation plans might work. 
Tourist dies after medical emergency on Swanage beach A major emergency incident was sparked when a tourist died following a medical emergency in Swanage on Tuesday 15th August 2023. 
New summer festival ends appley for Purbeck Cider Despite a worrying weather forecast, the success of a new summer festival was one more reason to celebrate a successful year at Purbeck Cider. 
Search for Swanage’s top talent to share stage with star band A competition for talented singers and songwriters will see the winner appear on the same Swanage stage as World Cup band Toploader this summer. 
TV wildlife star to headline Planet Purbeck festival Rising TV star Nadeem Perera will be the big draw at the 2023 Planet Purbeck Festival in Swanage when he fronts a celebration of local wildlife at The Mowlem. 
Country dog show at Church Knowle is howling success Every dog had its day at the Margaret Green Country Show, at Church Knowle near Swanage, where unexpectedly good weather made it an event to remember. 
Sweet taste of success for Purbeck food and drink producers Top awards for great taste, dubbed the Oscars of the British food industry have been dished out to Purbeck companies. 
Marine police to tackle those waiving the rules in Swanage Bay More Dorset Police sea patrols are to take to the water around Swanage Bay this summer in an attempt to stop anti social behaviour on the waves. 
Swanage bandstand centenary concert cancelled as storm sweeps in History has repeated itself almost 100 years to the day that Swanage Bandstand was first opened, as the worst summer storm in years has now forced its centenary celebrations to ... 
Visitors drawn to Swanage Painting Club’s latest exhibition The joy of art keeps bringing visitors back to Swanage Painting Club’s annual exhibition, almost 50 years after it first started. 
BBC Springwatch boosts visitor numbers at RSPB Arne RSPB Arne has seen a 20 percent increase in the number of visitors since the BBC broadcast the wildlife show Springwatch from the nature reserve near Wareham in Dorset. 
Relive your youth at Langton’s ‘old skool’ rave with Judge Jules A dance festival of Nineties and Noughties club music is being held for the first time at Wilkswood Farm in Langton Matravers near Swanage.in Dorset. 
Kimmeridge stomach stone fossil sets world record A mysterious fossil found on Kimmeridge beach in Dorset has turned out to be a record breaking 150 million year old medical complaint. 
Gaia Pope: Death of Swanage teenager to be explored by BBC documentary A major three-part documentary into the tragic death of Swanage teenager Gaia Pope is to be screened on the BBC. 
All that jazz makes welcome return to Swanage’s Sandpit Field The sounds of jazz swung back into Swanage as the annual summer festival of mellow melodies made a triumphant return to Sandpit Field after a five year absence. 
Fund raising summer fair is a first for Swanage WI A fund raising event on the seafront will be the first large fund raiser for Swanage WI - which had the bad timing to set up just weeks before a ... 
Swanage Bay challenge may become annual festival A new community festival is set to be added to Swanage’s events calendar if the inaugural Jurassic Swim Challenge is a success. 
Nearest NHS dentist for new Swanage patients is now Portsmouth Swanage and Purbeck is close to becoming a dental desert as access to a NHS dentist continues to get harder and the travelling distance gets longer. 
Swanage Saxons launch £100,000 plans for replica longboat The sight of a Saxon warship raising sail in Swanage Bay could become reality if the dream of Dark Ages expert Joe Roberts gets to see the light of day. 
Tales of Princess Di’s Purbeck visit to raise funds for dance school Princess Diana’s former bodyguard is to present an evening of his favourite memories at The Mowlem in Swanage, Dorset to raise money in memory of his aunt, local dance teacher ... 
Durdle Door closed for filming star-filled Netflix show Visitors to Durdle Door in Dorset were turned away as the beach and car park were closed for the filming of a Netflix fantasy series. 
French impound German tank heading for Tankfest at Bovington Near capacity crowds at Bovington in Dorset made the Tank Museum’s Tankfest 2023 the biggest and best yet - even if French border control did stop the star exhibit at ... 
Antiques Roadshow delights thousands as cameras roll in Swanage Television royalty Fiona Bruce has brought the BBC Antiques Roadshow to Swanage in Dorset for the first time ever in its 45 year history - and the town will feature ... 
Fabulous fish festival confirms Swanage dates for 2024 Prince Albert Gardens was the plaice to be as Swanage Fish Festival was such a success that dates for a 2024 event have been confirmed already. 
Police plan for summer tourist boom in Swanage and across Dorset Police presence is being heightened in Swanage and Purbeck ahead of an expected bumper summer of tourists in 2023. 
Pedal powered Porsches set to make a splash at Studland A Studland beachside business is about to expand the UK’s greenest fleet of company cars with the addition of four open top Porsches. 
Swanage residents promised increased police presence in town The Dorset police and crime commissioner told a packed public meeting in Swanage that a manned police front desk will be reopened but he couldn't confirm a date. 
Swanage men aim to raise a few thousand squid for charity A gruelling challenge in Swanage Bay will see four friends attempt a 24-hour endurance swim which could set a European record. 
Food for thought as Swanage opens second mobile larder A second community larder has been set up in Swanage to tackle the dual issues of a war on food waste and the cost of living crisis. 
New snorkel school explores life under the sea in Swanage A new snorkelling school is opening in Swanage in time for World Ocean Day, to show children and adults the exciting underwater world that exists in the bay. 
Newly discovered 1930s posters to jazz up Swanage’s Mowlem A treasure trove of theatre memorabilia has been found at The Mowlem and is about to play a part in brightening up the Swanage seafront showbar. 
Back with a splash – Swanage Fish Festival returns for 2023 Swanage Fish Festival is all set to make a fintastic return to the town after a three year absence - and hopes to be bigger and better than before. 
Surrey couple ditch corporate life for Dorset safari venture A new Swanage company is gearing up for a busy summer offering a very different tourist experience - taking visitors on safari! 
Swanage Pirate Festival welcomes record crowds to town Batten down the hatches - Swanage has been overrun by pirates again for a good natured festival, which has attracted hundreds of landlubbers into town. 
Bee friendly as swarming season suddenly arrives in Purbeck Purbeck beekeepers are urging people not to panic if they encounter a swarm this spring - as the endangered insects need all the help they can get. 
Green light given to request for 20mph limit in Langton Matravers Plans for a 20 mile an hour speed limit through Langton Matravers have been approved after a long campaign by locals. 
Wildfire alert issued for Purbeck over bank holiday weekend Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service has declared an amber wildfire alert for Purbeck over fears of bank holiday barbecue blazes. 
Both Swanage lifeboats launched after multiple red flares fired Both of Swanage's lifeboats were launched when multiple red flares were fired out at sea. 
Christmas angels sought to help light up the streets of Swanage Swanage Chamber of Trade has appealed for a benefactor to cover the cost of extra Christmas lights in town for 2023. 
Roarsome dino art near Worth Matravers washed away by storms An amazing piece of art at a quarry near Worth Matravers, created for a David Attenborough TV show on dinosaurs, has been lost to the weather. 
Thousands roll up to enjoy classic cars at Lulworth Castle charity show A record breaking 4,000 people rolled up to support the Dorset Blind Association motor show at Lulworth Castle in perfect spring weather. 
Huge demand for affordable homes in Langton Matravers Hundreds of people vied for one of 28 affordable homes in a Purbeck village where the average house price is now £555,000. 
Promoting theatre in Swanage is child’s play for touring company A touring theatre company specialising in children's shows has just relocated to Swanage - and wants to help promote The Mowlem. 
Paddle steamer returns to Swanage after appeal keeps her afloat The paddle steamer Waverley will return to Swanage on eight days in September after a public appeal raised £180,000 to keep her sailing. 
Vole-unteers needed to monitor Ratty’s return to Purbeck Volunteer water vole wardens are being sought in Purbeck to confirm a theory that the endangered creature is staging a local recovery. 
Historic Studland home goes on the market for £5 million A National Trust property overlooking Studland Bay, which was used as a location for the BBC drama adaptation of Howards End, has been put up for sale for the first ... 
Chance to view Purbeck’s secret osprey nest sells out in hours Tickets for a guided tour to see the secret osprey nest near Wareham have sold out completely within four hours of going online. 
Warning as ‘significant’ Swanage landslip is still active A cliff fall in Swanage Bay caused by heavy spring rains could be a danger to beach users while still active, Swanage Coastguard has warned. 
Boxing gym finally opens in Corfe Castle after five year fight The battle to build a boxing gym in Corfe Castle in Dorset to give youngsters a sense of discipline, respect and purpose, has finally been won. 
Purbeck leg of cancelled £3 million cycle race may return in 2024 It’s been confirmed that the Tour of Britain bike race won't be rescheduled in Dorset this year - but there’s ongoing talks to bring it back for 2024. 
Tiger tank videos help Bovington museum roar to new YouTube record The Tank Museum at Bovington with half a million YouTube subscribers, is the first museum in the world to achieve 100 million views for its uploaded content, bringing in an ... 
New scheme to reward loyalty of shoppers in Swanage A loyalty card for Swanage called the Purbeck Pass is being launched to benefit shoppers and businesses through the year. 
Bank holiday picnic to chew over future of Swanage field Ideas for the future of a vital green space for Herston are being invited at a bank holiday picnic in the park. 
Secret lives of Swanage Bay black bream fish caught on camera Underwater cameras placed between Swanage and Kimmeridge have allowed a first glimpse into a secret world where male fish build nests and then protect thousands of eggs from enemies. 
Lulworth heart op hero Charlotte is raising £6,000 on the run Ultra runner Charlotte Clarke of Lulworth has set off on a 630 km run to raise money for Help for Heroes charity - despite heart surgery. 
Time’s up for Studland cafe as tide begins to reclaim Middle Beach A demolition team has started work to remove the iconic Middle Beach Cafe at Studland in Dorset, as the next phase of natural beach reclamation begins at the site. 
Safety fears grow in Studland as new crossing faces delays Delays in installing a pedestrian crossing in the heart of Studland due to the lack of funding have increased fears that a fatal accident will occur before action is taken. 
Swanage hails new cash machine at town centre Post Office Even a hail storm couldn't stop the installation of a new cash machine at Swanage's town centre Post Office bringing it closer to becoming a banking hub. 
Nature fair promotes the wilder side of Wareham A showcase for a natural alternative to bucket and spade beach holidays is to be held in Wareham to promote Purbeck. 
Studland adventure company forages ahead with new season An outdoor adventure company which began in Studland with just four kayaks and a hut, is back and bigger than ever for the new season. 
Family win approval for controversial self build in Purbeck village Unable to afford Purbeck house prices, a young couple have battled local opposition to build their own home on a field owned by relatives. 
Work starts to count the cost of oil spill in Poole Harbour Volunteers carried out an emergency survey of Poole Harbour, counting every bird to assess the damage caused by an oil spill from Wytch Farm. 
Take your seat to help secure The Mowlem’s future A huge £160,000 fundraising appeal to help ensure The Mowlem's future begins with a chance to sponsor a seat in the auditorium. 
Swanage looks for hedgehog heroes to beat prickly problem A meeting has been called in Swanage to help save the hedgehog as their numbers continue to plummet to critical levels. 
Wildlife fears spark frantic clean up of Poole Harbour oil leak Serious concerns are being raised about the long term health of wading birds and sea creatures after the Wytch Farm oil pipeline leak. 
Last call to throw a coronation street party as Swanage hesitates With only one road closure requested for a street party in Swanage to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III, residents are being urged to apply before the deadline. 
Farm and fortune as Purbeck favourite scoops top tourism title Farm park attraction Farmer Palmer's near Wareham has won gold at the 2023 South West Tourism Awards. 
Pin-up posters launch tourism week in Swanage The drive to attract tourists to Swanage for the 2023 season has officially begun with a series of posters showing the best of what the town has to offer. 
Seed of an idea blooms at Durlston art exhibition An arts project which was expected to run for just 15 days is to celebrate its 20th anniversary with a major exhibition at Durlston in Swanage. 
Beryl bike hire scheme rolls out across Studland In a bid to encourage more to explore Purbeck by bike, the cycle hire company has arrived in Studland in Dorset. 
Swanage born Hot Fuzz film director becomes patron of The Mowlem An award winning UK film director has been revealed as the first ever patron of the Swanage theatre in Dorset after a chance meeting in his home town. 
Thousands raised for more eco buoys to save Studland’s seahorses Another 22 eco buoys will be installed in Studland Bay after a 'phenomenal' £66,000 was raised in just a few months. 
Converted church boosts £1m Purbeck house market Chance to buy a piece of ecclesiastical history at Langton Matravers for Easter as a former Wesleyan church swells the record number of million pound properties up for sale in ... 
Rural crime police team investigates hare coursing in Purbeck Dorset Police' rural crimes team dealt with nine incidents of hare coursing in February 2023 including some in Purbeck. 
Still rocking it at 96, Sir David opens his last BBC series at Old Harry Sir David Attenborough will open his final BBC series from Old Harry to celebrate the best of British natural history. 
Inquest jury to look at coasteering safety after Purbeck death A jury will scrutinise safety rules for coasteering after the death of a man who drowned off Dancing Ledge near Swanage in 2019 
Swanage fish and chip chain hooks top UK title You'd batter believe it - Comedian Jason Manford has presented a top prize to a fish and chip business with two shops in Swanage. 
Swanage Blues Festival joins forces with The Mowlem For the first time in its 22 year history., the Swanage Blues Festival is finally to collaborate with The Mowlem. 
Wareham station gets a rebuild as call goes out for new firefighters A Purbeck fire station dating back to 1965 is getting a 21st Century makeover as it looks to attract a new generation of recruits. 
Purbeck boat hire business to expand despite opposition A business owner has praised Dorset councillors for ‘seeing sense’ after unexpectly allowing him to build larger premises within Wareham's conservation area. 
Studland dog walkers asked to keep their distance to save rare birds More awareness of wading birds and their habitat along the Studland peninsula is being urged, to help protect the overwintering visitors. 
Historic Swanage pub saved from bankruptcy A London property developer with a passion for beekeeping has rescued the Anchor Inn in Swanage. 
Purbeck day trips back on itinerary for cruise ship tourists Visitor attractions in Purbeck including Swanage, may benefit as cruise ships start to arrive in pre-Covid numbers at Portland in Dorset. 
Tank Museum in Bovington hosts model show to mark 100 years A hundred years after the author Rudyard Kipling first suggested creating a display of tanks, thousands of people visited the museum in Bovington. 
Second home tax in Dorset may fund new affordable housing Plans to double council tax bills for second home owners in Dorset have taken a further step forward. 
Ultra Jurassic Coast challenge to attract 3,000 competitors Starting in Corfe Castle and heading through Swanage, a 100 km challenge is to return to Purbeck for the keenest of runners. 
Major dig for Roman and Iron Age artefacts to start in Purbeck Archaeologists are to begin a three-year dig at Arne Moor in search of evidence of Iron Age and Roman settlements there. 
Great big campaign to restore hedgerows across Purbeck begins The most ambitious survey ever of the network of hedgerows from Swanage to Wareham has started, as part of the Great Big Dorset Hedge project. 
Beaver scheme for Studland could become reality in months Beavers could soon be reintroduced to Purbeck for the first time in 400 years after expert evidence was presented to MPs at Westminster 
New Salt Pig eatery in Studland replaces old Middle Beach cafe Following the controversial closure of Middle Beach cafe by the National Trust, a new venture has been set up nearby - The Sandy Salt Pig. 
Power lines to be buried to restore beauty spot near Swanage Overhead electricity lines in Ulwell, Swanage, are being buried underground as part of a £15 million scheme to make the scenery more beautiful. 
Watch out for ‘floating terrors’ washing up on Purbeck beaches Walkers along the Purbeck Coast, especially those with dogs, are being warned to look out for a venomous sea creature washing up on shore. 
Splash of colour at Blue Pool returns to illuminate Purbeck attraction Last year’s sell-out sound and light show is back for 2023 at Blue Pool near Wareham with more music and plenty of dazzling colour. 
Dorset Council set to double council tax for second home owners Second home owners who don’t let out their property for more than 70 days a year in Swanage and across Dorset, face paying twice the amount of council tax from ... 
From coast to coaster – how Oly is tackling Purbeck’s plastics problem Long distance swimmer and environmentalist Oly Rush has come up with an inventive way to deal with the tons of plastic rubbish which washes up along Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast every ... 
Swanage Bandstand to mark 100th birthday as friends charity disbands Swanage Bandstand will celebrate its centenary with a special concert, just as the charity which rescued it from ruin closes down. 
Hundreds of acres in Purbeck to be flooded to save Poole property Fields to the east of Wareham will be deliberately flooded over the next three years to create a new 500 acre nature reserve for wading birds. 
Mobile larder launched in Swanage to combat cost of living crisis A new mobile pantry has launched in Swanage to help tackle the growing issue of food insecurity in the town. 
Take the plunge at Blue Pool thanks to new wedding licence Couples who got engaged over Christmas and the New Year have a new venue in Purbeck to consider in 2023. What happened in Swanage this year? Review of the year 2022 As some kind of normality returned to Swanage and Purbeck in 2022, we look back at the top stories of the year. 
Ready Sheddies go for Durlston expansion in 2023 A pioneering project set up at Durlston Country Park in Swanage to help people with disabilities or mental health issues has been so successful that it’s ready to expand in ... 
Divers uncover secrets of WW2 plane found in sea off Purbeck coast Wreck detectives have finally uncovered the secrets of a Nazi plane at the bottom of Worbarrow Bay. 
Purbeck company sees business boom over panto season Twin brothers from Wareham are responsible for putting the magic into no fewer than 30 major UK stage productions this Christmas 
Studland’s winter solstice magic made more accessible to everyone Thanks to a new countryside mobility scheme, more people than ever can experience the winter solstice sunrise at Old Harry Rocks. 
From Swanage to Serengeti, Alfie has new driving ambition Former Swanage student says he's found his calling in life at a preschool in Africa, and is now fundraising for a new bus. 
Lulworth hotel unexpectedly goes on market for £2.2 million A Victorian hotel just a stone’s throw away from Lulworth Cove has been put up for sale by its owners. 
First Candles on Swanage Beach event is shining success The spectacular sight of Swanage Beach lit up with candles to remember loved ones looks set to become an annual event due to its popularity 
Santa arrives by lifeboat to light up Swanage Pier Swanage Pier has been illuminated by more than a thousand lights as it reopened following the last stage in its £2.8 million renovation programme - WATCH VIDEO 
Swanage’s love-hate affair with tourism explored by new book A 1934 photo of the scandalous fairy light incident in Swanage could illuminate the town's love-hate affair with tourism, a new book claims. 
Swanage Christmas Market bids to expand as popularity grows Swanage Christmas Market may get bigger and better from next year as organisers begin talks to close a second road to accommodate more stalls. 
Record number of entries for Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival It’s the season to be jolly at St George’s Church in Langton Matravers, where a festive winter wonderland of Christmas trees go on display - SEE PHOTOS 
Swanage Cricket Club comes top of the league for community spirit Members of Swanage Cricket Club were bowled over with pride after being presented with a prestigious sporting trophy. 
Surge in electric cars could lead to £1 million charge for Swanage A rapid move towards electric cars could lead to a shocking £1million charge for Swanage Town Council by 2030 
Donkeys on Swanage Pier for Christmas When Santa visits Swanage Pier in the run-up to Christmas, he will have some extra help from his donkey friends. 
New parents urged to join Swanage study to beat ‘silent killer’ Mums and dads in Purbeck are being urged to enrol their young babies in a ground breaking study at Swanage Medical Practice. 
Lawrie drums up support for new Swanage samba band Music master Lawrie Sandford hopes to bring some Brazillian warmth to winter nights in Swanage by starting up a local samba drum band 
National Trust to demolish Studland beach cafe due to coastal erosion Climate change has been blamed for the decision to permanently close a beach cafe which has been a vital part of Studland for 120 years. 
Warm Swanage welcome for the former Para who’s raised £300,000 Swanage has given a hero’s welcome to a former paratrooper on an 8,500 mile charity walk around the entire UK coastline. 
New research claims eco moorings could save Studland’s seahorses A new type of boat mooring in Studland Bay could be the key to protecting seagrass – the essential habitat for seahorses - according to university researchers. 
Corfe Castle Club regains top title after two difficult years Real ale fans at the Corfe Castle Club have raised a toast to their bar which has been declared the best in Wessex - again. 
Berlin Wall is rebuilt in Purbeck forest as symbol of hope Seven huge sections of the Berlin Wall have been rebuilt in a Purbeck forest as a moving tribute to the fight against oppression. 
Swanage shoppers co-operate to raise bumper payout for charity An impressive £24,000 has been handed out to three local good causes by the Swanage Co-op. 
Thousand candles to light up Swanage Beach for loved ones A hospice care charity is organising a festival of lights on Swanage Beach to reflect, celebrate and remember everyone we love and care about. 
WW2 Valentine tank damage in Studland Bay prompts police inquiry Dorset Police are investigating the near destruction of a World War Two Valentine tank at the bottom of Studland Bay. 
Kimmeridge oil well to stop contentious burning of waste gases A controversial gas flare which burns off methane along the World Heritage coastline at Kimmeridge could be extinguished within three months. 
Purbeck secret garden seeks official status as visitor attraction A retrospective planning permission application has been submitted by the owner of a once derelict Victorian walled garden near Wareham. 
Swanage to pilot scheme to improve access to cash after bank closures An action group made up of financial institutions and consumer groups has visited Swanage to work out a plan to ensure the town still has a guaranteed supply of cash. 
BBC faces Lulworth ban after Doctor Who ‘deceit’ at Durdle Door The BBC may be banned from filming at Lulworth Cove again after it was accused of irresponsibility by showing Doctor Who regenerating on top of Durdle Door. 
Top author from Wareham gives boost to local library Successful children’s author Rachel Bright has cleared a space in her busy autumn diary to support Wareham Library. 
Swanage star charged extra to take home Best Actress award Swanage actress Nicole Faraday has picked up the biggest award of her life at an international film festival - and was promptly charged excess baggage fees to bring it back ... 
Swanage students open a new art trail to celebrate the pier’s past Art students have helped create a new interactive arts trail on Swanage Pier, linking the heritage of the town's tourism with its industrial past. 
Swanage Railway marks 50 years of battling to restore branch line Two rail enthusiasts who started the fight in 1972 to save Swanage Railway, returned 50 years later to pay tribute to all the volunteers. 
Purbeck farmer expands pick your own pumpkin to meet growing demand There’s no trick about the latest treat from a Purbeck fruit farm - pick your own pumpkin month at Lenctenbury Farm, near Corfe Castle, has become a screaming success. 
New Swanage Post Office opens on time despite Liam’s cancer setback Postmaster Liam Searle has managed to open Swanage’s new Post Office on schedule, despite having to beat off a dangerously aggressive cancer at the same time. 
Top Swanage fundraiser achieves her half pipe dream One of the best half pipe ramps in southern England has been unveiled at Swanage Skatepark thanks to the impressive determination of Swanage resident Lorna Haines. 
Purbeck village set to be among first in Dorset to apply for 20 mph limit Campaigners in Langton Matravers near Swanage are all geared up to permanently lower the speed through the centre of the village to 20 mph. 
New consultation on future of Swanage Library Dorset Council is undertaking a second consultation on the future for libraries in its area including Swanage, with the promise that closing them isn't part of the plan. 
Swanage festival is best value in UK as entrance fee stays at 2012 price The best-value entrance ticket in live music events anywhere in the UK has just gone on sale in Swanage - and it hasn’t risen in cost since 2012. 
Purbeck Cider Company back from the brink of disaster Two years after fearing his business wouldn’t survive, founder of Purbeck Cider Company Joe Hartle is now looking to expand. 
Kimmeridge nurdle hunt to help save Purbeck’s sea life The Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge is highlighting the threat of tiny bits of plastic called nurdles that end up on our beaches. 
Studland Master of Wine toasts new chapter for Purbeck U3A The first in-person guest speaker after lockdown for Purbeck University of the Third Age was an expert in wine. 
Kingston’s old church finally sells at auction for half a million pounds The former church in Kingston near Swanage with spectacular views of Corfe Castle, has finally sold at auction after an earlier million pound deal fell through. 
Swanage sea rowers rescue paddle boarders in trouble Two men fishing in Durlston Bay on a paddle board with no phone, radio nor lifejackets, were lucky to be spotted by a crew from Swanage Sea Rowing Club. 
Pop-up restaurant at Kimmeridge gets two years to prove itself Despite a recommendation to turn down the scheme, an alfresco restaurant along the Purbeck coastline has been given temporary permission to operate. 
Mystery surrounds why there’s so few hedgehogs in Swanage A new map shows that Swanage has some of the lowest numbers of hedgehogs anywhere in Dorset. 
Swanage couple get a final platinum anniversary card from the Queen One of the very last royal platinum anniversary cards from Queen Elizabeth II has been received by a Swanage couple. 
Swanage safe haven scheme in fightback against drug gangs Blue ‘S’ posters have begun appearing in shops and businesses throughout Swanage indicating safe places for children to go if they feel threatened. 
Planet Purbeck to run a ‘fitting’ festival to honour the Queen Events at the Planet Purbeck Festival on the day of the Queen's funeral have been cancelled - but most of what's planned for the 10 day eco festival will still ... 
Purbeck marks King’s accession as tributes continue for the Queen In Wareham and Corfe Castle, events took place to mark the accession of King Charles III, while mourning for the Queen continued. 
Fundraisers rally round to serve up new court for Swanage Tennis Club A new Astro-Turf court at Swanage Tennis Club is a smashing new hit, according to delighted club members