Author: Helen ffitch
The Rock opens new season for Dorset Adventure Park The inflatable water park and mud trail at Corfe Castle, reopens for summer 2022 and this year it's got a new star attraction. 
Robots to explore extent of seagrass on Studland’s seabed A seafloor survey of seagrass - the essential habitat for seahorses - is to be conducted over the summer in Studland Bay. 
The last retail bank in Swanage to close Lloyds Banking Group has announced the closure of 28 branches including Lloyds Bank in Swanage. 
Swift action required as birds return to Swanage for the summer The newly formed Swanage branch of the Swift Conservation group is urging others to join in their effort to halt the dramatic decline in the number of swifts in the ... 
Massive month of art kicks off in Swanage Over the next four weeks, artists in Swanage will be opening their doors to visitors - first as part of Dorset Art Weeks then swiftly followed by Purbeck Art Weeks. 
Wareham man sentenced to animal ban after filming cockfighting A 23 year old man from Wareham has been banned from owning cockerels and dogs for ten years after Dorset Police found distressing videos on his phone. 
Durlston bus service cut back due to lack of funding The bus service that usually operates from Swanage town centre up to Durlston Country Park and back via the hospital will only run for six weeks this year. 
Supermarket chain buys McColl’s including Swanage store Jobs at the convenience store McColl's in Swanage have been saved after the supermarket Morrisons bought all of McColl’s 1,100 shops across the UK, including the one in Institute Road. 
Lucky escape after car crashes into ditch near Wool Three people were rescued from a vehicle by fire crews after their car came off the road at Burton Cross near Wool in Dorset. 
Swanage Railway’s smallest diesel loco steals the show While many eyes were on the 1960s diesel locos at Swanage Railway’s Diesel Gala and Beer Festival, it was the smallest loco that grabbed much of the attention - WATCH ... 
A welcome return to more trains for Purbeck commuters South Western Railway is to once again run two direct trains per hour between Weymouth and London Waterloo via Wareham. 
Look what’s rolled into town for Swanage Railway’s first big event of 2022 A convoy of diesel locos has arrived in town, ahead of Swanage Railway’s Diesel Gala and Dorset Beer Festival. 
Financial advice offered in Swanage as cost of living bites A service by Citizens Advice Bureau has restarted in Swanage to help those struggling with their finances. 
Swanage Coastguard dismay as girl risks life at Old Harry A teenage girl had to crawl to safety, coaxed back by Swanage Coastguard, after venturing out along the top of Old Harry Rocks near Swanage. 
New street market along the beach comes to Swanage A totally new event will be taking place over a long weekend on Shore Road called The Swanage FreeWheelin FEASTival. 
Swanage businesses invited to enter Dorset Tourism Awards This year’s Dorset Tourism Awards are now open for entry and businesses from across Dorset including Swanage have just six weeks to submit their application. 
Stop selling disposable barbecues this summer plea Litter Free Dorset is renewing its call to end the sale of disposable barbecues in Swanage and across Dorset after the Canford Heath wildfire. 
Stricken yacht drifting towards Sandbanks Ferry rescued by RNLI Swanage Coastguard and Poole Lifeboat crew were quick to respond to a pan-pan radio call from a yacht that had lost all steerage - WATCH RESCUE VIDEO. 
End of an era for Swanage’s classic car show The Swanage Charity Day and Classic Car Show, which motored back into town after a two year break, will be the last for the show’s founder who is handing over ... 
Campaign for 20 mph through Dorset villages gets a boost The introduction of 20 mph speed limits through villages in Dorset is now more likely, after councillors voted to rewrite Dorset Council's policy. 
First ever livestream of Tank Museum’s Tiger Day in Bovington The Tank Museum’s special Tiger tank event will be broadcasting a free live programme via YouTube to help raise funds for Ukrainian children. 
Illegal rave in Purbeck goes ahead despite police presence More than a thousand party goers descended on Ministry of Defence land at East Lulworth on Easter Saturday - WATCH VIDEOS. 
Injured man rescued from Swanage pontoon by air ambulance Swanage RNLI, coastguard teams and paramedics from the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance went to the aid of a man who’d slipped and broken his ankle. 
Cancer charity’s Big Hike challenge is coming to Swanage Launched as an outdoor fundraiser in 2021 amid the pandemic, Cancer Research UK’s Big Hike challenge is now happening in Purbeck this summer. 
Swanage RNLI called out to kitesurfer in Studland Swanage Lifeboat crew were tasked to investigate reports of a father and daughter in difficulty, who had anchored their boat in Studland Bay. 
Swanage community awards launched to recognise local heroes Nominations are being invited for the Swanage Town Council Community Awards 2021/22, to reward individuals and organisations for their outstanding contribution to the community. 
What’s on in Swanage over Easter Plenty of events are happening in and around Swanage over Easter 2022, as well as a chance to enjoy the usual attractions of the beach and the countryside. 
New bins for Swanage seafront in latest attempt to tackle litter Bigger bins with seagull resistant lids have been deployed at Swanage litter hotspots in a bid to keep the town tidy. 
Planning granted for 90 homes on old Swanage Grammar site The former Swanage Grammar School site next to St Mary’s RC Primary School and nursery has got permission to be redeveloped, despite concerns from some parents. 
UK’s biggest men’s cycle race to go via Corfe Castle and Wareham The route of the Tour of Britain cycle race has been revealed and it’s going through Purbeck, taking in Lulworth, Church Knowle, Corfe Castle and Wareham. 
Plea to stop tossing drink cans onto Swanage’s road verges Volunteers, who annually clear litter from road verges between Swanage and Wareham, are calling for people to stop chucking rubbish out of their cars. 
Repair bill for Swanage beach toilets to cost thousands The future of the public toilets to the north of Swanage Bay is up for discussion after a sewage pipe fractured. 
The Pig Hotel at Studland sold to private equity group A private equity firm that specialises in travel and leisure, has bought the parent company of the Pig Hotels with a view to increasing the number of its properties. 
Midnight rescue by Swanage RNLI and coastguard Following a medical incident on the cliff path above Durlston Bay in Swanage, the lifeboat crew were paged to help get the casualty to hospital. 
Perfect marriage of pencil and metal at Durlston’s latest exhibition Finely detailed wildlife pencil drawings and exquisite silver and copper metal work, combine to make up the new exhibition at Durlston Country Park in Swanage. 
Woman bitten by dog on Corfe to Swanage footpath Purbeck Police are appealing for witnesses, especially a horse rider, who saw a dog bite a woman in her 60s on her back. 
Exciting new Swanage play area aiming for Easter opening A new children’s play area is starting to take shape next to the skatepark in the centre of Swanage. 
National Trust buys Worth Matravers farm and Winspit Quarry The National Trust has purchased a 350 acre farm with the aim of returning the fields to wildlife-friendly grassland and protecting rare bats 
Air ambulance rescue for climber hurt in fall from Purbeck cliff A climber who received head and chest injuries after a fall near Worth Matravers, had to be rushed to hospital by Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. 
Historic aerial photos of Swanage go online for first time Fascinating aerial photos have been newly published online by Historic England including hundreds capturing Purbeck from the skies over the last 100 years. 
End of the line for Swanage’s buffet car café? A campaign by a local resident has been launched urging Swanage Railway to keep the Bird’s Nest Buffet at Swanage Station. 
As energy costs rise, Swanage businesses invited to join forum A new business group is being launched in Swanage to help local companies become more sustainable while reducing their carbon footprint. 
Large quantity of fuel stolen in Studland Purbeck Police are appealing for information after the theft of a large amount of diesel from a location in the central area of Studland in Dorset. 
Chimney blaze at Studland hotel tackled by fire crews Swanage and Wareham Fire crews were called out to the historic building and former home of the Bankes family. 
Brand new Swanage parkrun gets off to a flying start The first ever parkrun at Durlston Country Park in Swanage, attracted more than 100 participants on a gloriously sunny Saturday morning. 
Major delay as rail service between Swanage and Wareham postponed Swanage Railway has just announced it’s postponing its planned trial diesel train service to the main line at Wareham until the summer of 2023. 
Plenty of drama going on at The Mowlem A weekend of gripping theatre and film is planned for The Mowlem in Swanage - one production in support of the local school and the other for Ukraine. 
Regular Swanage visitor bequests large gift to lifeboat crew The family of a long serving RNLI volunteer, who died at the age of 101, visited the Swanage Lifeboat Station to hand over a generous donation to the crew. 
Chance to take part in the Great Dorset Beach Clean 2022 Dates have been announced with events taking place in Studland, Lulworth, Kimmeridge and Chapman’s Pool. 
Wareham shop has £2,000 worth of cigarettes stolen CCTV footage of a man and woman has been released by Dorset Police following a theft from a shop in Wareham. 
Rapid community response saves Swanage Ambulance Car! The power of a community, united behind the single cause of keeping the Swanage Ambulance Car in Purbeck, has been credited for the decision by NHS bosses to retain the ... 
Health bosses announce they will not withdraw Swanage Ambulance Car It’s just been confirmed that the Swanage Ambulance Car has been saved from being scrapped and will continue to serve Purbeck. 
Swanage rallies round and raises thousands of pounds for Ukraine Moved by the distressing images of the Ukrainian people under attack from the Russian military, Swanage has quickly sprung into action to help those fleeing their country. 
Swanage’s missing defib turns up after three months! To the delight of the Swanage Community Defibrillator Partnership, the defib and trauma pack that went missing just before Christmas 2021, has now been returned. 
Village turns out for a grand opening in Langton Matravers After much anticipation, the impressive new playground at Langton Matravers near Swanage has been officially opened. 
Tourists following satnav to Old Harry Rocks get stuck in mud The Swanage Coastguard team were expecting to see cows but discovered to their surprise a stranded camper van, far off the beaten track in Studland. 
Swanage Town Council increases its council tax income by 12 percent The amount Swanage Town Council raises from council tax for 2022/23 is to go up by an inflation-busting 12.4 percent. 
Cost of on-street parking in Swanage goes up Parking in Station Road and Shore Road to pop to the shops or visit the seafront in Swanage, now costs more. 
Sandbanks Ferry toll increases to £5 for cars and vans The cost of travelling on the Sandbanks Ferry for vehicles is to rise, although the toll won’t go up for those on foot, bike or motorbike. 
Wareham Hospital still has a future, confirms NHS bosses NHS Dorset Healthcare says it will continue to provide services for Purbeck residents at Wareham Hospital despite withdrawing from health hub plans 
Swanage responds to Ukraine crisis Spurred to help Ukrainians fleeing from the Russian invasion, essential supplies are being sent from Swanage and Purbeck. 
Swanage and Studland not likely to get Dorset barbecue and fly camping bans Legal bans on antisocial lighting of fires and camping on beaches, are to be introduced by Dorset Council but it’s proposed they won’t cover most of Purbeck. 
‘Steep increase’ of dog poo on Swanage footpaths and green spaces Swanage Town Council says members of its operations team have been hit by flying dog poo on at least 20 occasions in the last seven months. 
Old explosive device found in Studland pond Purbeck Police had to put in place a 50 metre cordon near Ferry Road in Studland after the discovery of old ordnance. 
Purbeck Health Hub scrapped as NHS pulls out of plans A new vision for the old Wareham Middle School site is being proposed after NHS Dorset Healthcare decided not to build new hospital facilities on the site. 
Power cuts, travel disruption, flood alert and another wind warning for Swanage Storm Franklin has blown into Swanage with westerly gusts up to 50 mph, prompting the Met Office to issue a Yellow wind warning. 
Legacy to Will becomes a reality as #Willdoes bus launches in Swanage An impressive fundraising drive by the founder of the charity #Willdoes in memory of her son, has provided for a mobile youth bus. 
Storm Eunice blows through Swanage with gusto As Storm Eunice approached Swanage, the Met Office upgraded its wind warning for the area from Amber to Red - the highest level of alert - WATCH VIDEO. 
Celebrity launch of charity in memory of Corfe Castle teenager With the thousands of pounds raised after the sad death of 17 year old Jude Morris from Corfe Castle in Dorset, his family has launched a charitable foundation. 
Amber wind warning sees Swanage batten down the hatches The Friday Market is cancelled and students are being asked to work from home as Storm Eunice sweeps through Swanage. 
No more Sandbank Ferry paper tickets to be sold for vehicles The Sandbanks Ferry company has announced the end of the sale of paper ticket books for cars, vans, lorries, buses and coaches. 
New access to Tilly Whim caves as part of Durlston project For the first time in decades, visitors to Durlston Country Park in Swanage will be able to peek inside Tilly Whim caves. 
Plastic bottle, believed to be 65 years old, washes up on Jurassic Coast One of the oldest examples of plastic packaging ever to be recovered on a beach, has been found at Chapman’s Pool near Swanage. 
Developer wins battle to scrap affordable homes at Swanage site In what’s been called ‘a travesty of planning’, a building company has won its case not to provide social housing at the former St Mary's School site. . 
New rules on Blue Badges in Dorset Council car parks set to come in Under new proposals, Blue Badge holders will have to pay when visiting Dorset Council owned car parks in Corfe Castle and Wareham. 
Police investigate after rare eagle found dead in Dorset Dorset Police are appealing for information after a white-tailed eagle was recovered by a multi agency operation, one of two found dead in the south of England. 
Ambitious £60m plans for Studland hotel rejected by councillors The general manager of Knoll House Hotel in Studland says he’s disappointed that proposals to transform it into an upmarket five star resort have been refused planning permission. 
Jobs up for grabs at Swanage Town Council With 13 vacancies, Swanage Town Council is holding a jobs fair so people can find out more about the roles based in the Dorset seaside town. 
Man in 70s airlifted from Swanage to hospital with broken leg Swanage and St Albans Coastguard went to the rescue of a 73 year old walker who had broken his leg on the South West Coast Path - WATCH VIDEO. 
Motorist jailed after car crash in Wool which killed popular teacher and dad A 41 year old man from Bournemouth has been jailed after it’s believed he fell asleep at the wheel causing a fatal multiple vehicle collision. 
Planning officers agree affordable homes aren’t viable at Swanage site A row over whether new housing on the former St Mary’s School site in Swanage should include affordable homes, is expected to blow up again. 
Purbeck Police stop driver with smashed in car A driver in Wool near Wareham was told by police to stop driving a vehicle with no front bumper, lights or number plate. 
Seriously injured climber rescued at Anvil Point is charity CEO Volunteers from Swanage RNLI, the local coastguard and air ambulance have been praised by the head of a national charity - SEE RESCUE VIDEO 
Decision due on plans for £60m redevelopment of Studland hotel Ambitious proposals for Knoll House Hotel in Studland to be transformed into a luxury five star resort are to be considered by Dorset Council. 
Opportunity to train as a riverfly monitor at Corfe River A training workshop is being run by Dorset Wildlife Trust for those willing to don their wellies and paddle in the River Corfe to assess its water quality. 
Radical rethink by Dorset Council to reduce building in countryside Environment groups across Dorset including Purbeck are welcoming proposals to delay a key planning document and reduce the number of homes to be built on green fields. 
Seriously injured climber rescued from rock face at Anvil Point Emergency services managed the tricky task of rescuing a woman with a broken ankle from a cliff ledge near the Anvil Point Lighthouse to the west of Swanage. 
Police appeal after 14 year old assaulted in Wool Following reports that a 14 year old boy was punched by two other teenagers in Wool near Wareham, Dorset Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come ... 
Big year for Swanage events as Diesel Gala and Beer Festival confirms date Swanage is facing its biggest year ever for events in 2022 and one of the most popular is the return of Swanage Railway’s Diesel Gala and Beer Festival. 
Langton pre-school gets surprise donation from Swanage Folk Festival St George’s Pre-school leader, Sabrina Moss, was delighted when she received an unexpected donation of £250 from Swanage Folk Festival. 
Visitors to Swanage Hospital need to take lateral flow test New rules are being introduced for people visiting patients on the ward at Swanage Hospital, to help reduce the spread of Covid. 
RNLI on the lookout for new Swanage Beach lifeguards Getting ready for summer 2022, the RNLI is inviting applications from those who would like to be beach lifeguards along the South Coast including Swanage. 
Police hunt for driver of car ‘hidden’ in Swanage The driver of a Mercedes car is being sought after they failed to stop for police and tried to hide the vehicle behind some flats in Swanage. 
Dig this – Swanage seafront gets spruced up! The operations team for Swanage Town Council has been busy planting out more trees, shrubs and perennials to improve the appearance of the town and its eco credentials. 
More than £20,000 raised over Christmas by Swanage Rotary Christmas activities organised by Swanage and Purbeck Rotary brought not only seasonal cheer but also raised an impressive £20,000 for good causes. 
Purbeck businesses among finalists of Dorset Tourism Awards In yet another seesaw year for tourism, a number of businesses in Purbeck have reached the finals of the Dorset Tourism Awards for 2021 / 22. 
Three men arrested on suspicion of kidnapping in Swanage Dorset Police are appealing for witnesses after reports that a man was assaulted and forced into a car in Swanage and driven away against his will. 
Swanage and Wareham firefighters do animal rescue! Ideally equipped for reaching the top of buildings and trees, animal loving fire crews were called to save a bird in Swanage and a cat in Wareham. 
More Blackpool than Blue Pool, Purbeck attraction gets illuminated Blue Pool near Wareham has undergone a dazzling transformation bringing light and music to a winter evening’s stroll. 
Purbeck commuters face slower rail journeys due to staff shortages The ‘significant impact’ of the Omicron Covid variant means the introduction of a reduced rail timetable from Wareham Station to London and Southampton. 
Cyclist’s leg bitten by dog in Swanage Purbeck Police are asking for the owners of a dog that caused a puncture wound to a man’s leg, to come forward and tell their side of the story. 
Swiss Army gifts Bovington Tank Museum a present too big to wrap A Swiss variant of a British post-war tank has been delivered back to the UK and is now on display at The Tank Museum in Bovington in Dorset. 
First shout of the year for Swanage Lifeboat crew Following reports of a kayaker in difficulty in Swanage Bay, both lifeboats from Swanage Lifeboat Station launched for the first time this year. 
Durlston Castle to get solar panels to reduce carbon footprint Planning permission has been granted to install solar panels at the Victorian Grade II listed Victorian folly near Swanage. 
More Covid cases now in Dorset than at any other time in pandemic Latest figures show that the number of people testing positive for Covid in Dorset, has hit its highest peak than at any other point of the pandemic. 
Councillors angered by bid to remove affordable housing in Swanage In a heated debate, Dorset Council nearly threw out the requirement for affordable housing from a proposed development in Swanage but settled on deferring the decision. 
Celebrity couple share photos of New Year trip to Swanage While many famous people visit Swanage and keep it quiet, one well-known couple let everyone know what a good time they were having by posting on social media. 
Swanage Coastguard investigates reports of ordnance on beach A suspicious metal item that looked like a landmine was discovered at Sheps Hollow, the area of beach to the northern end of Swanage Bay. 
Swanage Railway on brink of restoring service to Wareham after 50 year battle A special diesel train service on Swanage Railway has marked the 50th anniversary since British Rail closed the branch line from Swanage to Wareham - WATCH VIDEO. 
Helicopter rescue for cyclist from top of Purbeck Hills A woman sustained injuries when she fell off her bike, close to the top of Nine Barrow Down near Swanage. 
Swanage streets to be closed for roadworks A series of new year road closures in Swanage will mean drivers will have to take diversions to get round town. 
Children tackle tree planting at Swanage and Wareham rugby club As part of a game plan to combat climate change, Swanage and Wareham RFC and Sustainable Wareham teamed up to plant 30 new trees. 
Discovery of unexploded bomb closes off Studland car park The car park at Middle Beach has been cordoned off by Purbeck Police until an explosive ordnance can be made safe. 
Swanage yachtsman sails into 2022 with an eye on Paris Olympics With plenty of peaks and troughs in 2021, sailor Sam Whaley from Swanage is looking to establish himself next year as a contender for the 2024 Paris Olympics. 
Brave Swanage swimmers take a Boxing Day dip Disorganised in the best possible way, hundreds took the plunge for the annual Boxing Day swim in Swanage - WATCH VIDEO. 
Winners revealed of best Christmas lights in Swanage A competition to find the best festive decorations in Swanage has proved a tricky task, as many residents created dazzling displays . 
Tree 4 Henry – Holm oak planted in memory of much loved Swanage man Family and friends gathered to plant a tree at Prince Albert Gardens in Swanage in memory of Henry Searle, who sadly died aged just 25. 
Swanage’s theatre on financial knife edge as Covid impacts again With audiences staying away due to renewed fears over Covid, The Mowlem is launching a winter appeal to raise £5,000. 
Heartfelt plea to return missing Swanage defibrillator Essential life saving equipment costing £1,000 has gone missing from outside the Swanage Sea Rowing Club near the pier. 
Bumper fundraising effort in Swanage to get #Willdoes bus on the road A launch date in early 2022 has been set for a mobile youth centre based in Swanage, thanks to youth charity #Willdoes. 
Bin collections across Purbeck still disrupted admits Dorset Council Apologising to residents in Swanage and across Purbeck, Dorset Council says it is trying to fix the problem of missed or delayed bin collections. Man facing death by dangerous driving charge after fatal crash in Wool Following a three vehicle collision, in which a man died, a 41 year old man is to appear in court for an offence of causing death by dangerous driving. 
Behind the scenes as Extreme E car racing arrives in Bovington More used to army tanks, Bovington in Dorset has been transformed into an off-road racing track for Extreme E and it's helping beavers too! 
First Christmas for Swanage Town Band at the new bandstand Breaking tradition for the first time, the Swanage Town Band performed Christmas carols at the newly refurbished bandstand - SEE VIDEO AND PICTURES. 
New Purbeck Christmas fair may become regular event Word of mouth and the power of social media ensured the success of the first ever Christmas fair at Hartland Stud near Norden. 
Fundraising effort to get Victorian loco back on Swanage Railway’s tracks Work to restore a Victorian locomotive is steaming ahead after it was gifted to Swanage Railway by the National Railway Museum. 
Competition launch to find best Christmas decorations in Swanage Swanage’s Chamber of Trade is inviting entries for its annual competition to find the best festively decorated residences and businesses. 
Plans to redevelop Harrow House in Swanage revealed Local people are invited to a public exhibition to see the proposals for the former Harrow House site in Swanage. 
Parents object to plans for Old Swanage Grammar School site A house builder is being asked to reconsider its planning application for 90 homes in Swanage to take into account the health and wellbeing of school children. 
New clinic at Swanage Hospital to help with breathing difficulties A better breathing clinic has been launched at Swanage Hospital organised by a charity that provides care to patients facing life-limiting illness. 
Super Saturday as sun shines for Swanage Christmas market and events Swanage buzzed with activity as the Rotary Christmas Market took over Station Road, the artisan beach huts were busy and runners finished racing on the beach. 
Dog rescued after falling over cliff in Swanage Both the Swanage and St Albans Coastguard teams were called in to save a dog that had gone over the edge of the cliff on Swanage Downs. 
Investigation into Studland heath fire reveals cause Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says the fire that destroyed around 20 hectares of heathland in Studland in Dorset was started accidentally. 
Travel on Swanage Railway for 50p to mark 50th anniversary The heritage railway in Swanage is offering a limited number of tickets at 1972 prices to mark 50 years since the last British Rail train trip. 
Santa is coming to Swanage! Track his progress across Purbeck Find out where Santa will be and when, as he travels across Purbeck bringing his seasonal cheer. 
Fire destroys large area of rare Studland heathland habitat Firefighters are battling a blaze that has spread quickly across internationally important Studland heathland in Dorset - SEE VIDEO AND IMAGES. Swanage man arrested after woman in hospital with serious injuries Dorset Police have detained a man in custody following reports of an assault at an address in the centre of Swanage. 
New booking system for Covid booster jab rolled out in Purbeck To ensure more residents in Swanage and across Purbeck can get their Covid booster jabs at Wareham Hospital, a new text booking system is being introduced. 
New Road to Studland temporarily closed for resurfacing A section of New Road (B3351) that links Studland and Corfe Castle is to be temporarily closed for four days for resurfacing works. 
Swanage lights up for Christmas with switch on event despite gales Shoppers braved the strong winds of Storm Arwen to venture into Swanage town centre for the annual Christmas Lights switch on - SEE VIDEO 
Police praise bystanders who tried to save life of woman in Swanage The importance of knowing where life saving defibrillators are in Swanage has been highlighted by Purbeck Police, after a woman collapsed at Swanage Market. 
Injured woman rescued from Dancing Ledge by Swanage RNLI A walker who’d fallen and injured her leg at Dancing Ledge along the Purbeck coastline had to be rescued by the Swanage lifeboat crew, in order to get to hospital. 
What’s on in Swanage for Christmas 2021 In stark contrast to last year’s festive season, events are going ahead in 2021 to celebrate Christmas in Swanage and across Purbeck. 
Swanage Railway signals start to Christmas with first festive test run Residents got a first glimpse of the Swanage Railway Steam and Lights train service and the offer of a 25 percent discount on tickets - WATCH NEW VIDEO 
Swanage residents’ views sought on a pocket of open land The future of the old St Mark’s School playing field and sports court in Herston is under discussion since Swanage Town Council signed a lease to take over the land. 
Gainsborough Care Home in Swanage rated as ‘Good’ by regulator To the delight of the team at Gainsborough Care Home, it has moved from the grading ‘Requires Improvement’ to ‘Good’ following a recent inspection. 
Ban on BBQs and anti social camping not proposed for Swanage and Studland A legally enforceable ban on antisocial behaviour is being proposed by Dorset Council for some areas but not for the majority of Purbeck. 
Swanage Carnival recognises long serving dedicated volunteers Swanage Carnival volunteers with a collective 365 years of service between them, have been honoured with long service awards, following a difficult two years. 
Volunteers at Swanage Railway Museum celebrate a cash boost Audio recordings from Swanage branch line staff and passengers in the 1950s and 1960s, will transport visitors back in time, after the museum was awarded grant funding. 
Swanage remembers all those who died in war This year, Remembrance Sunday was able to be marked in Swanage with a parade, church service and the laying of wreaths at the war memorial. 
Purbeck pub game finals take place after pandemic delay The winners of the Purbeck Longboard Shove Ha’penny competition finally got their hands on their trophies at an awards night in Swanage. 
Firefighters extinguish abandoned campfire in Wareham Forest The crew from Wareham Fire Station had to put out a campfire that had been left to burn in Wareham Forest. 
Remembrance Day service at Swanage War Memorial A service to mark the end of World War One and to remember those who died was held at Swanage War Memorial - WATCH VIDEO 
Chadwick raffle winner donates prize to Swanage community A raffle of a miniature version of the full size statue of Swanage World War Two hero Trevor Chadwick, has raised more than £3,000. 
New sport and leisure centre for Swanage back on track after delay Plans to replace the Swanage Town and Herston Football Club sports hall are now progressing, after a temporary solution was ruled out. 
Car park at Norden escapes Dorset Council parking charge hike Purbeck Park car park at Norden, developed to encourage visitors to take the train to Corfe Castle and Swanage has got a last minute reprieve. 
Swanage-based radio station scoops silver at national awards Community radio station, Purbeck Coast 101.2 FM located on Swanage Pier, has achieved recognition in the prestigious 2021 Community Radio Awards, less than three years since its launch. 
Launch of plan to build affordable homes to rent in Swanage Local residents fed up with the lack of reasonably priced housing in Swanage are launching a new charitable trust to build affordable homes to rent. 
Swanage Fire crew rescue woman and dog from town centre fire A woman and her dog had to be given oxygen after a fire broke out in a building in the centre of Swanage. 
Warning to beach hut users after Dorset carbon monoxide poisoning Beach hut users are being urged to install carbon monoxide detectors after an elderly couple and their dog were overcome by fumes in their Portland Bill beach hut. Owners of dog that bit woman in Swanage have come forward Following a media appeal, Dorset Police say that the owners of a dog involved in a bite incident in Swanage have contacted them. 
Poppy shop pops up in Swanage for Royal British Legion As part of the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal, fundraising events are being held across Purbeck including a pop-up poppy shop in Swanage. 
Route into Purbeck remains closed as work to clear 10 trees starts The main road into Wareham and through to Swanage is expected to remain blocked all day as the huge task of clearing the road starts - SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO 
Parking permits for residents to be looked at by Dorset Council It’s been revealed that Dorset Council is considering introducing on-street parking permits for residents across the area including Swanage. 
Son to fly Spitfire over Old Harry Rocks in memory of WW2 pilot father Eighty years after the death of a pilot during WW2 off the Purbeck coast, his son plans to fly a Spitfire over Old Harry Rocks. 
Second Planet Purbeck Festival in pipeline after success in 2021 Hailing its first festival as “a success way beyond our expectations”, the environment group Planet Purbeck says it’s already planning a festival for next year. 
Dorset hospitals see sharp increase in Covid patients as cases rise Public Health Dorset is warning that the vaccine is not a magic protective cloak as Covid cases and hospitalisations substantially rise in Dorset. 
Wildfowl killed in apparent deliberate act in Purbeck Purbeck Police are appealing for witnesses after two geese and six ducks were run over by a vehicle at East Creech near Corfe Castle. 
Surprise discovery of baby red squirrels in mild Purbeck autumn Rare baby red squirrels, normally born in spring, were an unexpected find in a nesting box on Brownsea Island, part of the recently designated Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve. 
Naughty Knitters calendar raises more than a smile for Swanage charity A huge cheque for £11,000 was handed over to a local dementia charity by the Naughty Knitters of Swanage. 
Campaign success as Swanage Hospital walk-in access restored Hailed as a victory for common sense, Friends of Swanage Hospital say that patients will now be allowed to turn up at Swanage Hospital Minor Injuries Unit without an appointment. 
Durlston receives international award in record breaking year The international quality mark for parks and greenspaces - the Green Flag Award, has been awarded to Durlston Country Park, alongside five other Dorset Council countryside sites. 
Seafront road closure for Swanage Rowing Club event With 30 boats taking part in the Swanage Rowing Club SuperVets Championship, the south end of Shore Road in Swanage will be closed for the day. Woman bitten on leg by dog on Swanage footpath Dorset Police are investigating after a large dog bit a woman puncturing her skin, as she was walking her two Jack Russell dogs. 
Swanage on-street parking charges set to go up The cost of parking in Station Road and Shore Road is to increase, along with Dorset Council owned car parks in Wareham and Corfe Castle, if the plans get the ... 
Swanage street name may be changed after complaint A street name that a family holidaying in Swanage found offensive is set to be altered after they contacted Dorset Council. 
Local community gets to see Swanage’s theatre in a new light A multi-sensory backstage tour of The Mowlem in Swanage has been a surprise hit giving people a chance to peek behind the scenes. 
Swanage RNLI treat injured woman facing long wait for ambulance A woman in a lot of pain on a Studland beach was facing a long wait for an ambulance, so Swanage Coastguard called on the lifeboat crew to help. 
Cleaning up Wareham rivers to prevent pollution in our sea Thirty volunteers turned out for a litter pick along the River Frome and Piddle to help stop plastic and other rubbish from heading down to Poole Harbour. Latest on Swanage Ambulance Car In response to concerns from Swanage residents, a special committee is to be set up by Dorset Council to scrutinise proposals about the future of the ambulance car. 
Fundraising hits target to refurbish play area in Langton Matravers Langton Matravers’ Parish Council has successfully raised £36,000 to re-equip the children’s playground, boosted by a £5,000 donation from a housing association. 
Tributes paid to Swanage Coastguard volunteer who died suddenly Following the unexpected death of Swanage resident Mark Kilby, tributes have been paid to him by the local organisations that he was involved in. 
Prizes awarded to support young artists across Purbeck The Isle of Purbeck Arts Club has awarded cash prizes to the latest winners of its annual children and young people’s art competition, made possible by a generous legacy. 
Boat stuck on Studland nudist beach Both Swanage Coastguard and Poole RNLI were called out to a 45 foot sailing yacht that ran aground on a Studland beach. 
Purbeck Coast 101.2 FM nominated for radio awards Local community radio station, Purbeck Coast 101.2 FM, has been shortlisted in the annual national Community Radio Awards. 
Injured woman rescued by helicopter from Purbeck coast path Swanage and St Albans Coastguard teams were called to help a walker who had fallen and sustained a serious leg injury. 
Earlier winter opening hours for Swanage tip to meet local demand Residents are being given the opportunity to tip up earlier to the Swanage recycling centre over winter, as new opening hours are introduced. 
Swanage RNLI go to the rescue of yacht with a fire on board Discovering a fire below the deck, a yacht just off Old Harry Rocks near Swanage, broadcast a Mayday call requesting immediate assistance. 
Car and motorbike seized by police in Swanage The Dorset Police No Excuse team patrolling in Swanage, have confiscated a motorbike and a silver Audi car for having no insurance. 
Swanage Railway’s Steam and Lights train trip is back for Christmas The surprise success that lit up the festive season during a period of gloom in 2020, is returning for 2021. 
Chance to visit eco homes in Swanage and get inspired Environmentally friendly homeowners in Swanage are opening their doors to the public to show what they’ve done to encourage others to do the same. 
NHS boss confirms end of walk-in access to Swanage Hospital MIU NHS Dorset Healthcare Trust says the 111 first approach to access minor injuries units is working extremely well but Dorset councillors are to scrutinise the decision. 
Secondary schools in Purbeck holding open evenings again Open evenings for prospective parents and children to look round secondary schools in Purbeck, including The Swanage School, are happening again this autumn. 
Week-long eco festival across Purbeck gets off to a flying start The Planet Purbeck Festival, which celebrates our local natural environment, began well with a special visitor flying in. 
Swanage Town Band back at new bandstand for Chadwick fundraiser Bright sunshine greeted Swanage Town Band’s first performance at the bandstand since it was refurbished - WATCH VIDEO. 
Singing in Swanage making a comeback after months of silence The director of music at St Mary’s Church in Swanage, is urging everyone to ‘Come and Sing’ again after Covid stopped everyone singing in public. 
Million pound investment in Swanage Hospital unveiled to residents After years of planning and months of building work, a major refurbishment of Swanage Hospital including a new therapeutic garden for patients has been unveiled. 
Purbeck Art Weeks’ Rollington Barn exhibition is back! With plenty of work produced during lockdown, the Rollington Barn exhibition near Corfe Castle is bursting with paintings, photography, prints, ceramics and greetings cards. 
Teenage boy allegedly robbed and threatened with knife in Swanage Four people from Poole have been arrested following an alleged robbery and assault on a teenage boy at the Texaco Garage in Swanage. 
Swanage RNLI go to aid of injured woman who’d fallen on yacht A crew member on board a large yacht that had just rounded Old Harry Rocks near Swanage, needed medical help after falling heavily on some metal fittings. 
Dorset Wildlife Trust hands over garden to Swanage community In an official ceremony with the Swanage Mayor present, the Greengage Project team has taken over the community garden in Prospect Crescent. 
Voluntary no anchor zone for boats to be introduced in Studland Bay In a bid to protect seahorses in Studland Bay, boats are going to be asked not to drop anchor in the area of seagrass. 
Purbeck View School in Swanage graded as inadequate for social care The regulator, Ofsted, has told the management of the Purbeck View School in Swanage it must not admit any more students following its latest inspection, which found the social care ... 
Plans to be revealed for new village hall in Swanage Residents are invited to see the architect's drawings and give their views on the proposals to rebuild Herston Village Hall in Jubilee Road. 
Campaign launched to reinstate walk-in access to Swanage’s minor injuries unit The Friends of Swanage Hospital says it is horrified that the minor injuries unit is locking its doors to walk-in patients. 
Dorset Council calls on central government to fix bin lorry driver shortage Regular rubbish bin and recycling collections are being missed in Swanage and across the county due to what Dorset Council calls an unprecedented staff shortage. 
Wareham Forest sees more “precious heathland” destroyed in fire Firefighters, including a crew from Swanage, were called to tackle a major blaze in the heart of Wareham Forest, that may have been started deliberately. 
Horrifying crash as wingwalker plane ditches in sea by Sandbanks Ferry No stranger to unusual incidents, the Sandbanks Ferry was suspended after a plane taking part in the Bournemouth Air Festival, crashed into the sea - SEE VIDEO AND IMAGES. 
Wanda the Waste Warrior fights plastic pollution in Purbeck A six metre fish sculpture to encourage the recycling of plastic and cans, as well as refilling and reusing bottles, is travelling to Studland, Swanage and Wareham. 
What’s on in Swanage in September 2021? With so many events having been postponed due to Covid, there’s lots happening in September 2021 in Swanage. 
Father pays tribute to Corfe Castle teenager who died in motocross race A talented 17 year old from Corfe Castle in Dorset, has been described by his father as a “really, really good kid” and his “best friend”. 
Bank Holiday speedboat rescue for Swanage RNLI Swanage Lifeboat crew, who are to feature tonight in the latest BBC TV Saving Lives at Sea episode, were paged to help the owners of a speedboat, who were at ... 
Rare sand-loving insects boosted by creation of new habitat in Purbeck An attempt to increase the number of endangered Purbeck mason wasps and heath tiger beetles on heathland near Arne has been hailed a success. 
Swanage Railway hosts bank holiday steam extravaganza In its first big event since the latest lockdown, Swanage Railway is staging a four day rally, celebrating steam-powered transport from trains to rollers. 
Dorset Council appeal to find homes for Afghan refugees The need to accommodate Afghans fleeing the Taliban has prompted Dorset Council to urge private landlords and owners of second homes in Swanage and across the county to come forward. 
Dorset Police seize e-scooters and issue warnings A surge in the illegal use of e-scooters on roads and pavements has prompted Dorset Police to take action over the summer. 
Planning granted for Stoborough housing but no second homes allowed Outline planning permission has been approved for a housing development in Stoborough on the Isle of Purbeck, on the condition it meets the terms of the Arne Local Plan. Swanage Town Council pays tribute to employee who died suddenly In what has been described as a “terrible shock”, a long-serving enforcement officer for Swanage Town Council collapsed while on duty. 
Injured man thanks emergency services after Swanage Beach rescue A man who sustained injuries while being towed behind a boat on a kneeboard has contacted Swanage Lifeboat Station to thank his rescuers. 
Popular Swanage Lifeboat Lego movie gets a sequel Following the runaway success of last year’s Swanage Lifeboat Week Lego animation, 12 year old Christian has now released a follow up movie. 
Dramatic Dorset coastline captured in new exhibition by Swanage artist Much acclaimed watercolour painter, Cathy Veale is exhibiting her work at the Fine Foundation Gallery at Durlston Country Park in Swanage. 
Timing it just right – Purbeck Valley Folk Festival gets to go ahead With huge relief and excitement for the musicians and organisers, the Purbeck Valley Folk Festival 2021 has kicked off, despite plenty of other musical events being cancelled. 
Purbeck’s district nurses get on their e-bikes! Inspired by healthcare staff in Holland, district nurses in Purbeck have been turning to pedal power to get them to appointments in Swanage and the surrounding area. 
Covid vaccine rollout to 16 and 17 year olds starts in Purbeck Swanage Medical Practice, along with GP surgeries across Purbeck is sending out letters inviting young people to get a Covid jab at Wareham Hospital. 
Escape the crowds by popping up to the Purbeck viewpoint An idea born out of lockdown has come to fruition for Henry Bond, who's turned a field into a food and drink pop-up next to the Isle of Purbeck viewpoint. 
Three Swanage Lifeboat crew who saved two lives, awarded RNLI commendation At the start of Swanage Lifeboat Week, three members of crew have been commended for their bravery, after a dramatic rescue. 
The Bigbelly arrives in Swanage to tackle growing litter A new solution to Swanage’s bin problem is being trialled with the deployment of two Bigbelly bins on the seafront that compact litter. 
Man indecently exposes himself to 13 year old girl in Swanage Dorset Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact them, after a man indecently exposed himself to a teenage girl in Washpond Lane. 
It’s up! The Albert Memorial in Swanage is completed The obelisk in memory of Queen Victoria’s husband, Albert, that lay in ruins for 50 years has at last been re-erected in Swanage. 
Two teenagers rescued from cliffs near Durdle Door Emergency services rushed to the aid of two boys stuck on the cliff face above the Man O’ War beach near Durdle Door in Dorset. 
Housing scheme plugs gap for adults in social care across Purbeck A year after being completed, the modular apartments in Wareham are being deemed a success, as residents become more independent. 
Swimmer pulled from sea in Swanage in early hours Emergency services were called just after 1 am in the morning, following reports of a person in trouble in the water by the Stone Quay in Swanage. 
Emergency services urge use of mobile tech to “save vital time and lives” in Purbeck Dorset Police, Swanage RNLI and Swanage Coastguard are asking those exploring rural and coastal areas to download location finding software like what3words. 
Family pay tribute to 25 year old Corfe Castle man who died in car crash The family of a man who sadly died in a road traffic collision near Corfe Castle in Dorset say he will “never be forgotten”. Get a jab on Swanage seafront as Covid cost is revealed in new figures A mobile vaccination clinic is heading to the beach so anyone may walk in and get a jab, as new statistics for Swanage are released. 
Midnight helicopter rescue of injured walker near Dancing Ledge Volunteers from Swanage Lifeboat Station and the Swanage and St Albans Coastguard teams went to the aid of a woman who was in considerable pain. 
Plans to create a Purbeck ‘New Forest’ take shape Cattle, ponies and pigs are to be allowed to freely roam across an extended area of heathland between Stoborough, Corfe Castle and Arne. 
Simon and Garfunkel tribute act returns to Swanage Stopping off in Swanage before appearing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the show Simon & Garfunkel Through The Years is at The Mowlem. 
Swanage Lifeboat goes to the aid of midnight swimmer The crew of a boat anchored in Swanage Bay at night called the UK Coastguard after they spotted a person swimming in the sea and were concerned. 
Who’s in the driving seat? Launch of ambulance car challenge in Swanage A new activity trail for children has been launched in Swanage featuring Purbeck's much-loved and appreciated ambulance car. 
Aled Jones in Swanage for filming of BBC’s Songs of Praise Hundreds of residents and visitors flocked to Prince Albert Gardens for the first Songs of Praise filming of hymn singing for 18 months - SEE PHOTOS. 
Purbeck Police to listen to Swanage’s concerns Throughout the summer holidays, Purbeck Police are to hold pop up sessions on Swanage seafront to hear what residents and visitors say are their priorities for local policing. 
Iconic Purbeck landscapes captured in new exhibition at Durlston Well-known landscape photographer Andy Farrer took inspiration from his local surroundings for an exhibition showcasing his new work. 
“Selfish behaviour” condemned after barbecue causes Arne fire RSPB Arne says a wildfire on a huge scale was narrowly averted thanks to a boat crew who spotted smoke and the fire service's quick response. 
Racist incident at Studland investigated by Purbeck Police Police officers are appealing for witnesses following a racially aggravated public order incident in Studland. 
Warning of traffic delays ahead of Camp Bestival at Lulworth A temporary one-way road system, reduced speed limits and parking restrictions are to be put in place to help manage traffic in Purbeck, ahead of the music festival at Lulworth ... 
Local man dies in car crash on road near Kingston village Dorset Police are appealing for witnesses after a driver in his 20s died at the scene when his car left the road and ended up in a field. 
Rotary cancels Swanage summer fete as Covid cases double in a week Swanage and Purbeck Rotary has called off its summer fete due to a rise in Covid cases and fears the event would attract a large crowd. 
Coroner opens inquest into death of man on Lulworth Estate A man on holiday with his family, who died when he fell off rocks at Stair Hole near Lulworth Cove, was 47 year old Azhar Baig from Luton. 
Swanage sizzles in the heat but thunderstorms on their way The Met Office is warning that the current heatwave in Swanage is forecast to end with a bang - SEE HEATWAVE PHOTOS AND VIDEO. 
RNLI rescue a boat pinned against Sandbanks Ferry The crew of the Sandbanks Ferry had to lower the ramp in mid passage to prevent a 16 foot sailing boat from getting into further danger. 
Tow truck deployed for first time in Studland to control bad parking Over the hot weekend, Dorset Council had to exercise its new powers to tow away illegally and dangerously parked cars. 
Fire crews tackle field fire near Corfe Castle in blazing heat Swanage Fire Station was first on the scene when a crop caught alight in a field near Corfe Castle. 
Helicopter rescue for woman taken ill on packed Durdle Door beach A beachgoer at Durdle Door who was stung by a jellyfish and then fainted, had to be airlifted to get to a waiting ambulance. 
Man released from investigation after reported sexual assault at Durlston Dorset Police say that a man arrested in connection with a reported sexual assault, will face no further police action. 
Swanage businesses forced to temporarily close due to Covid Covid rules have left a number of businesses in Swanage temporarily shut because staff have Covid or are self isolating. 
Aled Jones and BBC’s Songs of Praise to film in Swanage For the first time in 18 months BBC's Songs of Praise will be recording a congregation and it’s chosen Swanage as its location. 
Flashing speed indicator installed on Swanage roads In a bid to remind drivers travelling into Swanage to slow down, Swanage Town Council has purchased a speed indicator device, otherwise known as a SID. 
Torrential downpours and flooding delays Swanage commuters Unseasonal heavy rain caused roads and roundabouts on the route out of Purbeck to flood, causing frustration for those heading to work. 
Walk-in Covid jab clinics start at Wareham Hospital as case rate goes up As the number testing positive for Covid rises in Swanage, people can get the vaccine without an appointment at Wareham Hospital. 
Change of advice for Swanage Hospital Minor Injuries Unit visitors Swanage Hospital has altered the sign outside the Minor Injuries Unit, so if a person turns up and requires immediate support, they will be assessed by its staff. 
Princess Royal’s visit to Swanage – official photos released The Princess Royal flew in to visit volunteer coastwatchers from the National Coastwatch Institution stations in Swanage and St Albans Head.. 
Fire destroys hay bales in farmer’s barn near Swanage Fire crews have spent the night dampening down a fire that started in a hay barn just off Valley Road. Planning application submitted for 90 homes on Swanage Grammar site Residents can now view and comment on the plans for housing on the site of the old grammar school in Northbrook Road in Swanage. 
Residents fear for future of Studland wildlife meadow A meadow on the Glebe Estate that was gifted to the National Trust in the 1990s by an eminent local, may now be sold to developers. 
Sporting events return to Swanage as Covid rules ease After a year’s absence, Swanage Coastal Rowing Regatta and the Swanage Triathlon are back on for 2021. NHS directive ends walk-in access to Swanage minor injuries unit Swanage Hospital, along with all the other minor injuries units in Dorset, is asking people not to turn up for treatment but to ring 111 and book an appointment first. 
No parking in new loading bays comes into effect in Swanage While the work to create new loading bays in Swanage town centre was completed in June 2020, the rules to enable fines for illegal parking have just come into effect. 
Swanage Lifeboat crew rescue “stricken” motor boat caught in ebbing tide With its anchor rope caught around its propeller just off St Albans Head, a 28 foot angling boat had to call for help from the RNLI. 
Swanage church celebrates bell system that kept ringing through Covid Church bells will ring out across the world, including Swanage, to mark 200 years since the invention of a system that allows one person to ring several bells. 
Swanage man wins UK national sailing competition Member of the British Sailing Team and Swanage resident, Sam Whaley has taken the top trophy in the Waszp UK Nationals 2021. 
Purbeck musical instruments urgently seek a new home A scheme that enables children in Swanage and across Purbeck to borrow a musical instrument is under threat due to a lack of storage space. 
Princess Royal braves Swanage weather to visit National Coastwatch Institution As patron of the National Coastwatch Institution, the Princess Royal flew into Swanage to meet the volunteers who keep a watch for those in trouble along our coast. 
Swanage Bowling Club open day to go ahead, come rain or shine! Whatever the weather, the organisers of the Swanage Bowling Club open day are encouraging people to just turn up and have a go. 
“Don’t learn to love your Covid cage” says Purbeck artist An art installation of people in cages has popped up on the top of a hill near Corfe Castle, to shine light on the way Covid has changed our lives. 
Wonderful Studland Ladies raise more than a smile as lockdown fundraisers With many conventional charity activities cancelled due to Covid, a group of women based in or near Studland have raised an impressive £15,000 in six months. 
Woman who fell to her death near Durdle Door was visitor from West Midlands Dorset Police have confirmed that the woman who died after falling from the cliff above Man o’ War Beach was in her 40s and from the West Midlands. 
Woman dies after falling from cliff near Durdle Door Dorset Police are investigating the circumstances following the death of a woman who fell from the cliff above the Man o’ War Beach. 
Man in 80s has Rolex watch stolen by woman in Wareham Purbeck Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman in her 40s made unwelcome sexual advances to an elderly man in his car and then robbed him. 
Studland beach cleared to rush man to hospital by helicopter Swanage Coastguard moved beachgoers to allow the rescue helicopter to land safely after a man suffered ‘a serious medical incident’. 
New lease of life for Swanage Town Council’s old greenhouse The old parks and garden depot that once supplied Swanage with its bedding plants is being turned into a community garden to promote wellbeing. 
New guillemot chicks at Durlston but other birds in decline Durlston Country Park in Swanage is having another successful guillemot breeding season but it's a different story for other seabirds. 
New bins give Swanage seafront a better look Shore Road in Swanage is being given a tidier appearance for the summer, as the old wheelie bins have been replaced with new smarter litter bins. 
Back in action – Rotary fete in Swanage to go ahead After many months that saw events and fundraising put on hold due to Covid restrictions, planning has started for Swanage and Purbeck Rotary's main summer fundraiser. 
Concern expressed by councillors over Swanage Ambulance Car’s future At the first meeting open to the public, to discuss the review of the Swanage Ambulance Car, councillors who represent residents in Purbeck, lined up to voice their views. 
New planning application for old Swanage Grammar School site Property developers say they are going to submit a new planning application for 90 homes on the site of the old grammar school in Northbrook Road. 
Injured woman airlifted from St Albans Head The coastguard helicopter was called upon to rescue a woman who had sustained a serious ankle injury along the Purbeck coastline at St Albans Head near Worth Matravers. 
Chance for residents to hear NHS bosses on Swanage Ambulance Car Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group , which funds the ambulance car, is to give an update to Dorset councillors at an online public meeting. 
Car speeding in Swanage seized by police A vehicle that was caught speeding along the High Street, was also found to have the wrong level of car insurance by the Dorset Police No Excuse team. 
Man airlifted to hospital after Durdle Door jump Despite warnings about the dangers, a man injured himself after leaping off the top of the limestone arch near Lulworth in Dorset. 
Illegally parked cars in Dorset liable to be towed away under new rules Following a tow away zone in Studland, Dorset Council is now set to introduce a tow away policy across its area, including Swanage. 
New measures to help Swanage cope with visitor influx As tourists flocked to the beach over the Bank Holiday weekend, improvements to Swanage’s seafront are being introduced as Covid restrictions ease. 
Swanage care home closes after Covid crisis Following the death of 16 residents from Covid, Wordsworth House in Swanage has closed, after it was unable to financially recover. 
Yacht crew who woke up on Swanage Beach rescued by RNLI In the early hours of the morning, Swanage Lifeboat Station got a call to help a yacht that had drifted ashore. 
Marine police to help curb jet ski speed in Swanage Bay A new plan of action for Swanage and Studland Bays has been agreed to help reduce the number of jet ski incidents. 
Chief constable for Dorset to retire in autumn Dorset's chief constable James Vaughan is to take retirement this year, after delaying the decision because of the pandemic. 
Repairs underway to Swanage beach steps after landslide A popular path down to the beach at Sheps Hollow in Swanage Bay is being repaired 15 months after the incident. 
Police appeal to reunite trailer seized in Purbeck with owner A suspected stolen trailer has been recovered by Purbeck Police and they are appealing to find the owner. 
Winners of Swanage community awards announced Awards have been presented to individuals and organisations in Swanage for their outstanding contribution to the community. 
Avril, the first Labour Mayor of Swanage! After four years, councillor Mike Bonfield has stepped down as Swanage Mayor and councillor Avril Harris has been elected to become the town’s 20th mayor. 
Swanage Ambulance Car meeting to take place, as chorus of protest grows Ahead of the first meeting to decide the future of the car, ambulance service boss visited Swanage to hear how crucial the car is to the community. Spring clean for Swanage and Studland beaches The Great Dorset Beach Clean took place across the county, despite a weekend of high winds, grey skies and rain. 
New eco group Sustainable Wareham meets for first time The environmental group Sustainable Swanage has a new neighbour – Sustainable Wareham and the two have started to work together to tackle important issues. 
Swanage Coastguard warning after two spotted on cliff edge Two people who’d walked out along the narrow ridge at the top of Old Harry Rocks had to be told not to risk their lives for a photo. 
New art exhibitions open at Durlston for Dorset Art Weeks After months of waiting, artwork is back on display at Durlston Country Park in Swanage, just in time for the start of Dorset Art Weeks. 
New Studland parking rules confirmed by Dorset Council A vehicle tow away zone is to come into force along Ferry Road in Studland but Dorset Council says there's still parking on the verge. 
Yellow wind warning for Dorset issued by Met Office Strong winds are expected across Dorset with gusts between 50 to 60 mph in coastal areas like Swanage. 
Dedicated Swanage volunteer to tackle Jurassic Coast yomp for charity Well known in Swanage for his tireless community work, Frank Roberts is setting off on a 96 mile sponsored walk from Exmouth to Swanage. 
Workman rescued from Wareham roof by firefighters Firefighters from Wareham, Weymouth and Westbourne were all called to help a roofer who had become stuck on top of a house, after being taken ill. 
Newly refurbished Swanage Museum to reopen after pandemic delay After more than a year and a half of closure and having undergone a complete renovation Swanage Museum is finally preparing to welcome visitors. 
The Mowlem aims to become Swanage’s “thriving cultural centre” Closed by Covid restrictions since the start of the year, Swanage’s theatre and cinema, The Mowlem has revealed plans to bounce back. 
Twenty years of flying the Blue Flag in Swanage! Swanage Beach has just been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag and the Seaside Award for 2021, which are only presented to well managed beaches with excellent water quality. 
What’s reopening in Swanage as Covid restrictions ease? From Monday 17th May 2021, there are changes to the Covid lockdown rules across the country which will give a significant boost to tourism in Swanage. 
Swanage Folk Festival threatened by shortage of stewards One of the few big events in the town most likely to go ahead this year, the Swanage Folk Festival is desperately short of stewards and without them it can’t ... Swanage Co-op temporarily closed after fire at the store Following a fire at the back of the supermarket, the Co-op in Swanage is closed to customers until 10 am on Sunday 16th May 2021. 
Non-uniform day raises £2,000 towards Swanage-based youth bus Local charity #Willdoes says it’s delighted with the success of its first Dorset Schools non-uniform day and wishes to thank everyone who took part. 
Seahorse sculpture unveiled in Studland amid plans to protect its habitat As moves progress to restore the seahorse’s natural environment in Studland Bay, a local artist has created an eye-catching seahorse sculpture. 
Injured climber rescued from Purbeck cliff ledge The coastguard helicopter airlifted a man to hospital, who'd dislocated his knee while climbing along the coast, half way between Anvil Point and Dancing Ledge. 
Swanage outdoor education centre up for sale at £2m The Allnatt Outdoors centre in Ulwell Road is being sold off after Covid restrictions wiped out its income. Tolls to rise after Sandbanks Ferry public inquiry ruling The government has given the go ahead to increase the toll for cars from £4.50 to £6.75 by 2031, with a swift rise to £4.75 on Monday 17th May 2021. 
Police seize dangerous car in Swanage with child passenger Purbeck Police has confiscated a vehicle in Swanage that was assessed as being in a dangerous condition. 
Future for Swanage loco uncertain as it faces costly overhaul Much-loved loco 80104 has been withdrawn from service at Swanage Railway and now it needs a full service costing more than £200,000. 
Vigilance urged after spate of thefts in Swanage Swanage residents are being advised by Purbeck Police to check their security, after a number of bikes and other items were stolen. Dorset Tourism Awards open for entry with new ‘Resilience’ category Swanage’s tourism related businesses along with those across the county, are invited to enter the Dorset Tourism Awards for 2021/22. 
Live tour of new Tank Museum WW2 exhibition ahead of reopening The Tank Museum in Bovington is to give a sneak-peek of what’s been going on behind closed doors in a live streamed event. 
Architect plans reveal site design of new Swanage statue A first glimpse of what the new sculpture of local man, Trevor Chadwick will look like when it is installed, has been made public. 
Great Dorset Beach Clean to go ahead in Swanage Despite being cancelled in 2020 due to Covid, the Great Dorset Beach Clean is back and will take place across 22 local beaches including Swanage and Studland. 
New Swanage Town councillor named The result of the by-election for the Swanage North Ward has been announced. 
Studland to get vehicle tow-away zone for summer A new tow-away zone is to be introduced along Ferry Road to help prevent a repeat of last year’s chaos when vehicles parked illegally. 
Two people run over by own car at Lulworth Emergency services responded quickly to reports that a car had rolled 30 metres down the cliff near Durdle Door Holiday Park. 
Swanage voters go to the polls The polling stations will be open from 7 am for residents to choose a new Swanage Town Council councillor and the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner. 
More catalytic converter thefts in Swanage Purbeck Police are warning that vehicles in Swanage are currently being targeted by catalytic converter thieves. 
Police investigation as Swanage Fire crew damp down heath fire For a second day, fire crews were at Boveridge Heath near Verwood following a blaze that destroyed more than 12 hectares of forest. 
Gales up to 65mph cause damage in Swanage Forecast high winds caused disruption in Swanage as scaffolding, trees and phone wires were all toppled by the gusts. 
Swanage Fire crew among 140 firefighters at Dorset heath fires Fanned by high winds and made worse by dry conditions, two heath fires broke out in Dorset on Bank Holiday Monday. 
Man in his 20s rescued by kayakers after Old Harry fall Lucky to be alive - 28 year old man survives 90 foot fall from Old Harry Rocks into the sea - SEE RESCUE VIDEO AND PHOTOS. 
Mayday at Swanage Beach as dogs banned and road closed From 1st May in Swanage, as the town prepares for the tourist season, new rules come into force. 
Shops in Dorset urged to stop selling disposable barbecues A campaign calling for retailers in Swanage and across the county to remove disposable barbecues from their shelves has been launched by Litter Free Dorset. 
Despite pandemic, Dorset Council meets its affordable housing target Over the last year, Dorset Council says that 301 new-build affordable homes were constructed with many of them in Swanage and Wareham, fulfilling its target of 300. 
Newly restored 1940s steam loco surprises Swanage shoppers Spotting a steam train in Swanage isn’t unusual but it was unexpected to see a 1940s locomotive on the road, rather than in the train station. 
Morris Dancing brings “joy and laughter” to Swanage care home Staff at Gainsborough Care Home in Swanage celebrated St George’s Day with Morris Dancing as part of Captain Tom’s 100 Challenge. 
Poster by well-known Swanage artist to make up to £2,000 at auction An original poster of Clavell Tower in Kimmeridge, alongside a poster of Bond’s Folly near Creech Grange are set to go under the hammer. 
Coastguard rescue after cyclist injures leg on Ballard Down While assisting a woman with a suspected broken arm at Peveril Point, Swanage Coastguard were called to help a woman in considerable pain, who'd fallen off her bike. 
Lifeguards to return to Swanage for staycation summer The Swanage RNLI Lifeguard tower is due to be craned into its summer seafront position in time for the holiday season. 
Climber airlifted to hospital after cliff fall at Winspit Ambulance, coastguard and fire crews all went to the aid of two climbers who got into difficulty at Winspit near Worth Matravers. 
Pod of dolphins back at Durlston! Visitors, volunteers and staff at Durlston Country Park in Swanage have been treated to three consecutive days of dolphin sightings from the cliffs. 
Deaths due to Covid drop sharply in Swanage for March Following February’s peak, the official ONS figures of deaths due to Covid-19, show that in Swanage and across Purbeck, the worst was over by March 2021. 
Police appeal after car crash involving Swanage man in his 80s Dorset Police officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a car overturned following a two vehicle collision on the A351 just outside Corfe Castle. Serious car crash closes road just outside Corfe Castle Part of the A351 near Corfe Castle was closed following a collision between two vehicles and there were severe delays to traffic between Swanage and Wareham. 
Swanage’s temporary flood defences removed as future options progress The concrete blocks that form a temporary solution to Swanage’s seafront flooding over the winter months are due to be removed. 
Swanage road closed following three car collision Purbeck Police and the Swanage Ambulance Car were called to the scene after a three car crash in Northbrook Road in Swanage. Planning legislation to restrict second homes in Purbeck delayed The Purbeck Local Plan has been delayed while Dorset Council considers the responses to the latest public consultation. 
Swanage says farewell to Henry The funeral procession for 25 year old Henry Searle, who valiantly fought brain cancer for far longer than doctors ever expected, will take place through Swanage. 
Swanage Carnival cancelled for second year With a “heavy heart” the Swanage Carnival team say they’ve decided that Swanage Carnival will not take place this year due to continued uncertainty. 
Swanage memorial to a queen’s consort takes shape Haysom Quarry in Langton Matravers has finished cutting the new stone for the restoration of the Albert Memorial, that was erected in Swanage in memory of Queen Victoria’s husband. 
Purbeck Police warn youths to stay away from old grammar site Following reports of smashed windows and trespassing on the old Swanage Grammar School site, police are warning of the dangers. 
Sandbanks Ferry break down, leads to evacuation and RNLI rescue Swanage and Poole Lifeboats were called to rescue a boat that got pinned against the Sandbanks Ferry, after it tried to evacuate passengers from the broken down ferry. 
Pop-up Swanage shop for Chadwick fundraiser A new shop has opened in Swanage but only for three weeks, to raise funds for a statue of a Swanage hero who saved the lives of children at the ... 
Building of new affordable homes near Swanage has started Construction is underway on a controversial housing development that will provide 28 new affordable homes in Langton Matravers. 
Swanage starts to come back to life as Covid rules ease As part of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown, shops selling non-essential items, outside hospitality venues and hair salons have now reopened. 
Man in his 70s dies in Swanage following “medical incident” The air ambulance, ambulance crews and police were all called to help a man in Swanage requiring urgent medical assistance. 
Full steam ahead as Swanage Railway emerges from lockdown Services on Swanage Railway are set to resume following the easing of Covid restrictions, having stoically survived a turbulent year. 
Swanage RNLI rescue casualty after tugboat accident Following an emergency call to the UK Coastguard, Swanage RNLI went to the aid of a tugboat crew member. 
Swanage bell to toll to mark the death of Prince Philip St Mary's Church in Swanage will toll a bell 99 times at midday on Saturday 10th April 2021 following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh and there will be ... 
Swanage pays its respects to The Duke of Edinburgh Following the announcement of the death of The Duke of Edinburgh, flags across Swanage have been lowered to half mast. 
Viewers gripped as Poole Harbour osprey returns to webcam nest The female osprey who has spent her summers in Poole Harbour unsuccessfully looking for a mate, has returned to try her luck for a fifth season. 
Too late for Dorset barbecue ban for this summer Amid criticism of moving too slowly to implement a legal order banning the use of disposable barbecues in public spaces, Dorset Council will rely on an information campaign this year. 
Hopes rise for May talks on Purbeck Paramedic Car’s future As local community support builds to stop the Purbeck Paramedic Car being scrapped, campaigners hope positive discussions with NHS bosses will take place next month. 
Swanage firefighters among team to tackle large heath fire More than 60 firefighters including crews from Swanage and Wareham, were deployed to bring a fierce heath fire near Wimborne under control - WATCH VIDEO. 
Fire service issue Amber wildfire alert for Dorset An Amber wildfire alert has been issued for the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service area, meaning that barbecues should not be lit near forests and heathlands. 
Swanage’s on-street parking charges to be reviewed As part of new proposals on parking charges across Dorset Council, on-street parking in Swanage is under review. 
Swanage attractions receive Easter gift from government A welcome cash boost of over £200,000 has been awarded to Swanage Railway and Durlston Country Park from the UK Government’s Culture Recovery Fund. 
Cows to enjoy Studland vacation this summer The National Trust is to start grazing cattle in the sand dunes and some arty cow information boards have popped up across Studland Bay to let people know. 
Swanage Co-op celebrates a £2.5m refit A “much overdue” refurbishment of the Co-op in Kings Road West has now been completed and a pupil from Swanage’s St Mary’s School got to cut the ribbon at the ... Sandbanks Ferry to return to normal operating hours Following the easing of lockdown, the Sandbanks Ferry will resume its full timetable, operating from 7 am to 11.10 pm daily. 
Three men jailed for Wareham cannabis factory Following the discovery by Dorset Police of a factory producing millions of pounds worth of cannabis on the Sandford Lane Industrial Estate, three men have been sent to prison. 
Swanage RNLI rescue drifting yacht In the early hours of the morning, the Swanage Lifeboat crew went to the aid of a yacht that had lost power off Anvil Point near Swanage. 
Purbeck Art Weeks postponed until late summer The annual Purbeck art festival, which usually takes place in May, is to be moved until later in the year due to Covid restrictions. Praise for Purbeck Paramedic Car after woman falls in road Swanage resident who fell over hitting her face on the kerb in Swanage High Street, says she is very grateful to the ambulance car paramedic. Swanage 40 to 49 year olds offered Covid jabs Swanage Medical Practice says it’s now sending out invites to its patients aged 40 to 49 years to get a Covid jab. 
Deaths due to Covid doubled in Swanage in February Confirmation that the UK’s second wave of the coronavirus pandemic was Swanage’s first wave, has been backed up by February’s official figures of deaths due to Covid-19. 
Road closure to reinstate Swanage zebra crossing Kings Road East by the junction with the High Street in Swanage, is to be temporarily shut to traffic to allow the zebra crossing markings outside the library to be ... 
Durdle Door owner calls for government to fund visitor education Lulworth Estate is urging people to sign a petition calling for the government to protect beauty spots as lockdown eases. 
Swanage reflects one year on since the start of lockdown As part of the National Day of Reflection, a minute's silence will be held at 12 noon and in the evening, buildings across the UK will be lit up in ... 
Fire crews from Swanage, Wareham and Poole tackle heath fire A controlled burn that got out of hand on Rempstone Heath on the Isle of Purbeck was eventually extinguished by firefighters from three fire stations. 
High percentage of residents urge Dorset Council to get carbon neutral quicker The results of Dorset Council’s consultation on its climate and ecological emergency strategy show that many residents would like it to become carbon neutral by 2030 and not 2040. 
Plans to prevent staycationer hell, rolled out by Dorset Council Dorset Council says it’s putting in robust measures to prevent a repeat of last summer's beach overcrowding, littering, illegal parking and outdoor toileting. 
Decision on Swanage Carnival 2021 hangs in the balance The Swanage Carnival committee has posted an update on whether the event will be able to go ahead this year and detailed a number of problems that need to be ... 
More rural building granted as Purbeck misses housing target The government has told Dorset Council that planning permission in Purbeck should be tilted in favour of allowing new housing to be built outside a village’s development boundary. 
Supermarket vouchers for Dorset families struggling over Easter Food vouchers worth £30 are to be distributed by Dorset Council over the Easter school holidays to support children in Dorset including Swanage. 
Swanage Councillors pledge action to retain the Purbeck Paramedic Car In response to residents' concerns about the scrapping of the paramedic car, Swanage Town Council says it would like to meet with the South Western Ambulance Service Trust. 
Poole Harbour wing surfers rescued by RNLI In blustery conditions, two men on paddleboards with hand-held sails had to be rescued by Poole Lifeboat crew after losing their sails - WATCH VIDEO. 
Swanage Folk Festival to go ahead but jazz festival bows out for 2021 As long as Covid restrictions are lifted as planned, Swanage Folk Festival will take place in September 2021, but the jazz festival has now cancelled until 2022. 
Swanage Town Council says no to 150 more homes and gypsy site The town council doesn't back the Dorset Council's Local Plan on housing and gypsy site but wants to "leave the door ajar" for a supermarket outside the town centre. 
Date of new eco festival in Purbeck announced Following 12 months of festival cancellations, the environmental group, Planet Purbeck is bucking the trend and launching a new eco festival in and around Swanage for September 2021. 
Help for parents as children in Swanage go back to school Dorset Council is offering support to parents and carers whose children are anxious about returning to the classroom this week, after an extended time away from the school environment. 
Swanage Jazz Festival cancelled in July but may move to later in year A musical medley of jazz, folk and blues could take place in Swanage this autumn as the town's main music festivals may all happen in September. 
Covid testing site to be set up in Swanage Residents will be able to get tested for Covid-19 in Swanage from this week, while asymptomatic testing is now operational in Wareham. 
Firefighters called to a digger on fire in Wool Crews from Wareham, Dorchester and Poole Fire Stations were called to extinguish a mechanical digger that had burst into flames - WATCH VIDEO. 
Swanage care home residents vaccinated as visiting restrictions eased Gainsborough Care Home in Swanage says that 100 percent of its residents have now received their first Covid-19 vaccination and the home is currently Covid-free. 
Corfe Castle calls People’s Assembly to discuss Dorset Local Plan Residents across Purbeck are being given the opportunity to discuss the Dorset Council planning document that will guide decisions until 2038. 
Army called in as mortar bomb discovered in Swanage A member of the public got a surprise when they accidentally dug up unexploded World War Two ordnance at Swanage Pitch and Putt. 
Swanage councillors disown leaflet about proposed gypsy site Councillor Gary Suttle and councillor Bill Trite who represent Swanage on Dorset Council say they did not write a leaflet that objects to a proposed gypsy site in Swanage. 
January – worst month for Covid deaths in Swanage The Office of National Statistics has published the latest information on the number of deaths due to Covid-19. 
Plans to bring the beaver back to Purbeck The environmental group, Planet Purbeck has teamed up with the National Trust to host an open meeting to discuss the possibility of reintroducing beavers to Purbeck. 
Swanage Pier awarded nearly half a million pounds The National Lottery Heritage Fund has announced that Swanage Pier Trust is to receive a substantial grant to get its restoration project back on track. 
Swanage Railway “delighted” as it hits fundraising SOS target Closed down by Covid, the heritage railway launched an ambitious appeal in March 2020 to raise £360,000 and it’s just announced it’s surpassed its goal. 
Foundations laid for the Albert Memorial in Swanage The concrete slab has been poured to form part of the base for the Purbeck stone obelisk that is to be reconstructed in Prince Albert Gardens in Swanage. “Bitter pill to swallow” – Council tax to rise by five percent Dorset Council, faced with a budget shortfall in excess of £18m due to the Covid pandemic, has voted to increase council tax for residents. 
Chance to boost bikes in Swanage The opportunity to run a cycle hire concession in the town is being offered by Swanage Town Council to get more people on bikes. 
Swanage Coastguard subjected to “unnecessary aggression” After an eventful week of landslips, high winds and flooding, Swanage Coastguard says safety measures are only put in place to help protect lives. 
Proposal to turn Wareham Quay into a piazza A group of residents, backed by the environmental group, Planet Purbeck have come up with a proposal to pedestrianise Wareham Quay. Cabs for jabs offer from Dorset Council Dorset Council, along with Public Health Dorset, is offering support towards the cost of a taxi to get to a local vaccination centre for those who couldn’t otherwise afford to ... 
Petition to save Purbeck Paramedic Car gets over 4.5k signatures The campaign to stop the scrapping of the paramedic car that serves Swanage has now got the backing of thousands of residents. 
Spectacular ice show makes up for no snow in Swanage Freezing temperatures and icy winds have produced an amazing display of icicles at locations in and around Swanage - WATCH VIDEO. 
Sea view location for Swanage’s Friday market Swanage’s popular Friday Market is moving from Main Beach car park to allow for maintenance work to take place. 
Chance of overnight snow in Swanage Following two days of bitterly cold winds, the Met Office is now forecasting the possibility of light snow overnight in Swanage. 
Fire badly damages flat in Swanage A person was treated for smoke inhalation after a fire broke out in a flat in the centre of Swanage in the early hours of the morning. 
Swanage Coastguard witness landslip as large rocks fall on beach While investigating reports of recent landslips on Swanage Beach, the coastguard team were nearby when they saw a further serious rock fall. 
Views sought on use of £10m former school by Dorset Council Dorset Council wants to hear the views of Swanage residents about using St Mary’s School near Shaftesbury as a special school for pupils with additional needs. 
Swanage businesses are finalists in Dorset Tourism Awards After one of the most challenging years for tourism, four local businesses are in the finals of the 2020/21 Dorset Tourism Awards. 
RNLI launches recruitment for Swanage Beach lifeguards With foreign holidays looking less appealing due to Covid restrictions, the RNLI is getting ready for the summer by advertising for beach lifeguards. 
Hopes rise for steam loco to return to service Moves to help get a hundred year old steam locomotive back into operation have been agreed by Swanage Railway and the National Railway Museum. 
Swanage outdoor centre makes all staff redundant due to Covid Allnatt Outdoors has shut its centre in Swanage and on the Isle of Wight, making all of its 24 members of staff redundant after losing 97 per cent of its ... 
Nearly 5,000 people vaccinated against Covid in Purbeck The roll out of the Covid vaccine is continuing well with a total of 4,784 patients having successfully received the first dose of their jab at Wareham Hospital hub. 
Urgent appeal as pandemic impacts staffing at local hospitals Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust that runs both Swanage and Wareham Hospitals is making an urgent appeal for volunteers to help support its NHS staff. 
Swanage Downs consultation – more views required! A survey to find out people’s views about Swanage Downs has now received around 170 responses but Swanage Town Council would like more responses. 
“Covid-19 is spreading much faster” and impacting care homes says Dorset Council 40 percent of all residential care homes in the Dorset Council area including Wordsworth House in Swanage, are currently impacted by Covid-19. 
Crisis in Swanage care home as residents and staff get Covid Wordsworth House Care Home in Swanage is appealing for more qualified staff to come to their aid after 34 residents and 30 staff tested positive for coronavirus. 
Days Park playground and outdoor gym get a boost With indoor gyms closed, it’s timely that the outdoor gym at Days Park in Swanage is getting a facelift, alongside improvements to the children’s playground. 
Swanage Pier’s finances take a battering from Covid storm Rescued from physical collapse in 2019, Swanage Pier is now in need of financial support to keep its head above water during the pandemic. 
Swanage Town Council launches plan to tackle climate change An Environment Policy Action Plan for the town has been formulated by Swanage Town Council and there's a meeting to have your say. 
No further Covid-19 deaths in Swanage for December The Office of National Statistics has published the latest information on the number of Covid-19 related deaths for every city, town and village across England and Wales. 
Bournemouth super vaccination hub starts – watch film to see inside Bournemouth International Centre will become more like Bournemouth ‘injection’ centre as it opens as the local mass Covid vaccination hub for Swanage residents and others across Dorset. 
“An extremely tough time” says Public Health Dorset As Dorset faces its highest levels of cases since the beginning of the Covid pandemic, we’re being told we've got to stick to the guidance. 
First of the over 80s in Swanage get Covid vaccine Among the first to receive the Covid vaccine in Purbeck were husband and wife, 89 year old John and 86 year old Shirley Abbott, who live in Swanage. 
More over 80s to get Covid vaccine in Purbeck as extra clinics planned As Covid vaccinations start at Wareham Hospital, there’s now new dates for more clinics but GPs are pleading not to be overwhelmed by enquiries. 
Sent back to Coventry – Police fine Durdle Door visitors Purbeck Police has issued penalty notices to a group that travelled from Coventry to visit Lulworth in Dorset, in breach of current Covid legislation. 
Lockdown 3 – Swanage takeaway and shops to get you through the worst sequel ever Here’s the list of the Swanage shops that are remaining open during lockdown to offer residents essential goods and food and drink takeaways. 
Wareham Hospital gears up for first Covid vaccine jabs as cases soar Plans to vaccinate the most vulnerable in Purbeck against coronavirus are well underway, as the date for the first clinic is announced. 
National Trust implores ferry company to give locals a bigger discount The public inquiry to decide whether the Sandbanks Ferry company can increase the price of its tolls, heard the views of the National Trust on the third day of proceedings. 
Sandbanks Ferry company grilled over toll increase proposal The managing director of the Sandbanks Ferry company has been giving evidence on the second day of the public inquiry to decide whether the company can raise its prices. 
Will the Sandbanks Ferry tolls go up? Public inquiry has started The Sandbanks Ferry company wants to increase its prices but because of objections, the matter is now to be decided by a government appointed planning inspector. 
Dorset heads into third national lockdown as Covid cases soar All non-essential shops in Swanage to close, children out of school to the end of February 2021 and no travel “outside your local area”. 
Monkey World closes due to “unacceptable abuse” by tier four visitors The ape rescue centre in Wool, Dorset has decided to temporarily shut, to stop people from tier four Covid restrictions trying to visit. 
Winner of the Swanage News 2020 quiz announced! So how well did you do in the Swanage.News 2020 quiz? Here’s the answers to the questions. 
Rotary brings Christmas cheer to Swanage and raises £9,000 Swanage and Purbeck Rotary’s festive activities had to be scaled back due to Covid but it still managed to help those alone at Christmas and raise money for charity. 
Swanage Coastguard station officer recognised in New Years Honours Ian Brown has been awarded the British Empire Medal after 30 years of volunteering as part of the Swanage Coastguard Rescue team. 
Dorset Covid cases double in a week and that doesn’t include Christmas impact As New Year's Eve looms, Public Health Dorset data shows that in the week leading up to Christmas, there was a “significant increase” in coronavirus cases in Dorset and hospital ... 
First the wind, now snow and ice weather warnings for Dorset As the county’s roads are cleared of fallen trees blown over by Storm Bella, the gritting lorries are out in preparation for the arrival of snow and ice. Challenge yourself with the Swanage.News quiz 2020 2020 has been a year to remember because of coronavirus but plenty of other things happened in Swanage - test your knowledge for a chance to win £50 cash! 
Christmas in full swing as Swanage playground is unwrapped Just in time for the festive holidays, Swanage Town Council has delivered a brand new play park, and re-named it The Chadwick Playground, after a local hero who saved the ... No lack of festive fizz in Swanage despite pandemic Christmas bubbles may have gone flat but Swanage has still managed to sparkle through the festive season and Santa has raised thousands of pounds for local charities. 
Rollout of Covid vaccine to start in Purbeck in January A date in the new year has been set for the start of the Covid vaccination programme for Purbeck residents and it'll be at Wareham Hospital. 
Purbeck Covid testing site to operate over holidays as cases increase With the number of coronavirus cases in the county increasing, testing centres will remain open across Dorset over Christmas and New Year. 
Swanage Mayor hopes for brighter 2021 as he thanks those who’ve been supportive of others In his Christmas message, Swanage Mayor, Mike Bonfield paid tribute to the town’s key workers, volunteers and residents for all pulling together over the past 10 months. 
Stay at home and join in Swanage Town Carol Service from your sofa Christmas isn’t the same this year due to Covid but the traditional carol service from St Mary’s Church in Swanage is still going ahead. 
After 17 years of volunteering, Swanage RNLI chairman steps down Peter Foster who's described by the crew as “kind and professional” has retired, after spending the last nine years as Swanage Lifeboat Station’s chairman. 
Dorset Covid cases low but heading in wrong direction The latest weekly coronavirus data from Public Health Dorset shows that cases have begun to rise across Dorset and the number of Covid-19 hospital patients has increased as well. 
Starling murmuration at Studland – watch the spectacular show! The starlings can be spotted in Studland again this winter and they are putting on an amazing display, as they swoop and dive in unison. 
Early glimpse of the life-size sculpture to grace Swanage seafront Great progress is being made on the statue to remember the Swanage man, who rescued 669 children from Prague in 1939 from German occupation, and the fundraising to pay for ... 
Demolition of Swanage WW2 defences possible as public consultation ordered The future of the Second World War gun battery at Peveril Point hangs in the balance as the structure is decaying and it will cost thousands of pounds to extend ...