News
There’s always something happening in Swanage and there’s plenty of ways to find out the latest news. The local media is very active with a community radio station, social media channels, news websites, newspapers and of course, Swanage.News.
You can listen to Purbeck Coast FM, which is based on Swanage Pier, by tuning in to 101.2 FM or by listening online. There’s also the Swanage Facebook page, the Swanage Town Council website and the Virtual Swanage website.
If you prefer more traditional media there’s the Swanage and Wareham Advertiser that is out weekly and the Purbeck Gazette which publishes monthly.
Suspected cannabis factory in Wareham raided by police Five people have been arrested following the discovery of a large-scale operation on the Westminster Road industrial estate. 
Video footage released of missing Wareham man in new search effort Dorset Police, continuing their enquiries to find a missing man in his 50s from Wareham, have now released new CCTV footage - WATCH. 
Swanage school girl swims to success as Dorset champion Daisy, aged 11 from Swanage, has won a remarkable three gold medals at the Dorset county swimming championships. 
Beaver scheme for Studland could become reality in months Beavers could soon be reintroduced to Purbeck for the first time in 400 years after expert evidence was presented to MPs at Westminster 
Swanage Railway offers discount train tickets to local residents It’s only for one weekend but Swanage Railway is inviting members of the local community to peek behind the scenes at the heritage branch line. 
Chance to come and sing in Swanage with top musicians New dates have been announced for the opportunity to tune up the vocal cords and get expert tuition from distinguished church musicians at St Mary’s Church. 
New Salt Pig eatery in Studland replaces old Middle Beach cafe Following the controversial closure of Middle Beach cafe by the National Trust, a new venture has been set up nearby - The Sandy Salt Pig. 
Power lines to be buried to restore beauty spot near Swanage Overhead electricity lines in Ulwell, Swanage, are being buried underground as part of a £15 million scheme to make the scenery more beautiful. 
Watch out for ‘floating terrors’ washing up on Purbeck beaches Walkers along the Purbeck Coast, especially those with dogs, are being warned to look out for a venomous sea creature washing up on shore. 
Swanage woman jailed for stealing cash from Dorset Police A former Dorset Police staff member from Swanage, has been sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to the theft of almost £15,000. 
New mystery object on Swanage Beach sparks intrigue The sight of a newly installed concrete block with a pole and a camera-like device along Swanage’s seafront has left passers-by mystified. 
Swanage Railway volunteer signals his retirement after 31 years The man who set up Swanage Railway’s first signalling school – and helped ensure the safe operation of its trains as a signaller and signal box inspector - has retired ... 
Dog plunges 28 metres from top of Studland’s Old Harry Rocks Swanage inshore lifeboat and the local coastguard team were called out to Old Harry Rocks to rescue a dog, a spaniel called Penny. 
Back on board: New Swanage Lifeboat role for Dave Corben Well known Swanage resident and local estate agent Dave Corben, who briefly retired as a Swanage RNLI volunteer after 50 years of service, is now returning to the helm. 
Splash of colour at Blue Pool returns to illuminate Purbeck attraction Last year’s sell-out sound and light show is back for 2023 at Blue Pool near Wareham with more music and plenty of dazzling colour. 
Cyclist airlifted to hospital after collision with van near Wareham A man in his 30s has received serious injuries after a collision with a van on Bere Road near Wareham. 
Swanage and Purbeck Rotary raises a festive £22,000 for charity Bouncing back after the disruption of past years, Swanage and Purbeck Rotary team served up a full festive feast of Christmas events and services. 
Swanage car parking fees to go up for spring and summer The cost of parking in a Swanage Town Council long stay car park is to rise for the first time in about 12 years. 
Swanage Hospital minor injuries unit to close due to nurses’ strike The health trust which runs Swanage Hospital has decided to close the minor injuries unit during the two days of industrial action by the Royal College of Nursing on Wednesday ... 
Swanage man jailed for controlling and coercive behaviour A 25 year old man from Swanage has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison after a court heard how he made death threats towards a former ... 
Dorset Council set to double council tax for second home owners Second home owners who don’t let out their property for more than 70 days a year in Swanage and across Dorset, face paying twice the amount of council tax from ... 
From coast to coaster – how Oly is tackling Purbeck’s plastics problem Long distance swimmer and environmentalist Oly Rush has come up with an inventive way to deal with the tons of plastic rubbish which washes up along Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast every ... 
Store wars as Co-op objects to new Lidl at Wareham The Co-op has told Dorset Council planners that, “There is no need for an additional foodstore in Purbeck”. 
Swanage Bandstand to mark 100th birthday as friends charity disbands Swanage Bandstand will celebrate its centenary with a special concert, just as the charity which rescued it from ruin closes down. 
Hundreds of acres in Purbeck to be flooded to save Poole property Fields to the east of Wareham will be deliberately flooded over the next three years to create a new 500 acre nature reserve for wading birds. 
Purbeck ambulance staff go on strike over conditions and pay Ambulance staff from Purbeck say there's a constant shortage of staff, hours spent waiting at hospitals and dying people can be left without the care they need. 
Mobile larder launched in Swanage to combat cost of living crisis A new mobile pantry has launched in Swanage to help tackle the growing issue of food insecurity in the town. 
Swanage’s panto is back at The Mowlem – oh yes it is! Robbing the rich to give to the poor is the topical theme of this year’s Swanage panto Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood. 
Rosy outlook for bold new Swanage venture A stylish new shop in Swanage has already received a warm welcome from customers and fellow business owners. 
Plans to celebrate the King’s Coronation take shape in Swanage A black tie Mayor's Coronation Ball is one of the events being organised in Swanage to mark the King's Coronation. 
Car fire ‘started deliberately’ in Swanage after earlier collision A man has been arrested after a car was spotted on fire at the back of houses in a usually quiet residential area in Swanage - WATCH VIDEO 
Increase in Dorset council tax bill proposed for 2023/24 Dorset Council has set out its initial proposals to raise the cost of council tax for residents from April 2023. 
The Mowlem getting its act together for 2023 After a number of false starts, there’s a new drive to breathe a fresh lease of life into Swanage’s much loved but architecturally controversial theatre. 
Swanage car parking frozen at £1 a day for winter To help boost business, the cost of parking a vehicle in two town centre car parks in Swanage is to remain at £1 a day until Friday 31st March 2023. 
Swanage Railway holds first steam and diesel special event of the year A nostalgic mix of steam and diesel trains will be in action over Swanage Railway’s Winter Warm Up weekend. 
Take the plunge at Blue Pool thanks to new wedding licence Couples who got engaged over Christmas and the New Year have a new venue in Purbeck to consider in 2023. 
What happened in Swanage this year? Review of the year 2022 As some kind of normality returned to Swanage and Purbeck in 2022, we look back at the top stories of the year. 
Injured walker airlifted from Peveril Point to hospital The Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance was called to rescue a walker who had fallen on the Swanage section of the South West Coast Path. 
Ready Sheddies go for Durlston expansion in 2023 A pioneering project set up at Durlston Country Park in Swanage to help people with disabilities or mental health issues has been so successful that it’s ready to expand in ... 
Divers uncover secrets of WW2 plane found in sea off Purbeck coast Wreck detectives have finally uncovered the secrets of a Nazi plane at the bottom of Worbarrow Bay. 
Huge turnout for Swanage’s Boxing Day charity swim The Boxing Day swim at Swanage Beach was officially back for 2022 and an impressive number of people turned up - VIDEOS AND PHOTOS 
Jubilee trees planted across Purbeck for the Queen Swanage, Studland and Corfe Castle have marked the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by planting commemorative trees. 
Best Christmas lights in Swanage: the winners revealed! A competition to find the best festive lights displayed by a business or local resident in Swanage has yet again proved to be a tricky task. 
Purbeck company sees business boom over panto season Twin brothers from Wareham are responsible for putting the magic into no fewer than 30 major UK stage productions this Christmas 
New village hall for Swanage gets planning approval The 1940s village hall in Herston in West Swanage is set to be demolished and replaced with an energy efficient community building. 
Studland’s winter solstice magic made more accessible to everyone Thanks to a new countryside mobility scheme, more people than ever can experience the winter solstice sunrise at Old Harry Rocks. 
Santa goes down a storm on Swanage Pier Due to popular demand Santa’s grotto on Swanage Pier looks set to return next Christmas along with a visit from the donkeys. 
Purbeck Breezer bus fare to be capped at £2 Dorset bus company Morebus has confirmed that a £2 cap on the price of a single bus fare for winter will be introduced. 
Swanage pub closes due to ‘financial difficulties’ as bills soar The Anchor Inn in Swanage has shut its doors indefinitely due to the financial impact of Covid and rising energy costs. 
Last chance to enter Purbeck Business Awards The deadline for entries and nominations for the first ever Purbeck Business Awards is looming and people are being urged to complete their entries in time. 
From Swanage to Serengeti, Alfie has new driving ambition Former Swanage student says he's found his calling in life at a preschool in Africa, and is now fundraising for a new bus. 
Lulworth hotel unexpectedly goes on market for £2.2 million A Victorian hotel just a stone’s throw away from Lulworth Cove has been put up for sale by its owners. 
First Christmas in Swanage for newly appointed rector Preparations are well underway to welcome everyone back into church for the Swanage Town Carol Service at St Mary’s following two years of restricted numbers due to Covid. 
New video campaign to boost Christmas shopping in Swanage With the Sandbanks Ferry out of service and not bringing its usual daytrippers into Swanage in the run up to Christmas, the town’s Chamber of Trade has been out filming ... 
Horse paddock in Swanage tipped for new affordable housing It’s a longshot but a field currently used for horses may become the location for Swanage’s first community-led social housing project. 
Grammar school weathervane restored and saved for Swanage! After many years of fighting to save a little bit of local history, the old Swanage Grammar School’s copper weathervane has been restored and handed over to Swanage Town Council ... 
Community welcomed back to Langton Matravers school nativity For the first time in six years St George’s CoE Primary School in Langton Matravers is holding a second evening performance of its nativity for local residents. 
Purbeck wakes up to snow, ice and fog as temperature drops Black ice on roads and pavements in Swanage and across Purbeck caused a number of incidents - SEE PHOTOS 
First Candles on Swanage Beach event is shining success The spectacular sight of Swanage Beach lit up with candles to remember loved ones looks set to become an annual event due to its popularity 
Santa arrives by lifeboat to light up Swanage Pier Swanage Pier has been illuminated by more than a thousand lights as it reopened following the last stage in its £2.8 million renovation programme - WATCH VIDEO 
Sandbanks Ferry return to service update following damage The Sandbanks ferry will be out of service for a few more months as it’s waiting on new parts from Poland. 
Swanage’s love-hate affair with tourism explored by new book A 1934 photo of the scandalous fairy light incident in Swanage could illuminate the town's love-hate affair with tourism, a new book claims. 
Purbeck dinosaurs and tanks receive mammoth cash boost Two museums in Purbeck have been awarded hundreds of thousands of pounds to improve their displays and protect collections. 
Plans to convert Swanage care home into flats An application has been made to change Wordsworth Care Home in Swanage into 16 apartments, following its closure after the death of 16 residents from Covid. 
Semi-conscious sailor rescued by Swanage Lifeboat crew Both Swanage lifeboats launched into near-gale conditions to rescue a person who was seriously ill on a yacht off Anvil Point near Swanage. 
Group of teenagers assault and seriously injure man in Swanage Purbeck Police are appealing for information after a man received injuries to his face when he was attacked by a group of teenagers outside Jewson builders merchants in Swanage. 
A robin for Robin: Corfe Castle switches on its festive lights There’s a special addition to the Corfe Castle Christmas lights this year to remember a local man who was a stalwart of the community. 
Swanage Christmas Market bids to expand as popularity grows Swanage Christmas Market may get bigger and better from next year as organisers begin talks to close a second road to accommodate more stalls. 
Record number of entries for Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival It’s the season to be jolly at St George’s Church in Langton Matravers, where a festive winter wonderland of Christmas trees go on display - SEE PHOTOS 
Swanage man and Corfe Castle woman jailed after drug gang bust A man from Swanage and a woman from Corfe Castle have been imprisoned for their part in an organised crime gang which trafficked cocaine and cannabis from Dorset into Wales. 
Swanage Railway gives a Steam and Lights thank you to its volunteers Swanage Railway prepared for its Christmas Steam and Lights service with a special trip for railway volunteers and invited guests - WATCH VIDEO 
Swanage Cricket Club comes top of the league for community spirit Members of Swanage Cricket Club were bowled over with pride after being presented with a prestigious sporting trophy. 
Studland Road reopens after five week closure for water works The controversial closure of the main road between Studland and Corfe Castle, coinciding with the Sandbanks Ferry stoppage, has now ended. 
Surge in electric cars could lead to £1 million charge for Swanage A rapid move towards electric cars could lead to a shocking £1million charge for Swanage Town Council by 2030 
Paddle boarder rescued after blown a mile offshore from Studland The RNLI has released a video of the rescue of a paddle boarder near Old Harry Rocks warning of “deceptive weather” conditions - WATCH VIDEO 
Swanage’s countdown to Christmas begins as festive lights shine Crowds gathered to witness the switching on of the Christmas lights in Swanage marking the beginning of festivities for 2022 - WATCH VIDEO 
Donkeys on Swanage Pier for Christmas When Santa visits Swanage Pier in the run-up to Christmas, he will have some extra help from his donkey friends. 
Changes proposed to improve pedestrian safety in Swanage The provision for pedestrians in front of Swanage station is ‘very poor’ according to a report being considered by Swanage Town Council. 
Swanage Railway facing ‘dire’ times as passenger numbers fall Following a gloomy summer which saw passenger numbers down by 25 percent compared to 2019 Swanage Railway is hoping for a boost over Christmas. 
Swanage sailor stays on track for Olympics with success in Europe British sailing team member and Swanage resident Sam Whaley has come a remarkable fifth in the laser sailing European Championships in France. 
New parents urged to join Swanage study to beat ‘silent killer’ Mums and dads in Purbeck are being urged to enrol their young babies in a ground breaking study at Swanage Medical Practice. 
Santa’s coming to Swanage – check out when he’s in your street! Helped by elves from Swanage and Purbeck Rotary and Crazy4Corfe, Santa will be travelling across Purbeck in his sleigh again this Christmas. 
Lawrie drums up support for new Swanage samba band Music master Lawrie Sandford hopes to bring some Brazillian warmth to winter nights in Swanage by starting up a local samba drum band 
National Trust to demolish Studland beach cafe due to coastal erosion Climate change has been blamed for the decision to permanently close a beach cafe which has been a vital part of Studland for 120 years. 
Hospice care charity expands its clinical team in Purbeck Two new members of staff have been recruited to the Lewis-Manning Hospice Care team to deliver services in Swanage and across Purbeck. 
Legendary Swanage family remembered at football ground Swanage Town and Herston Football Club has named its newly refurbished spectators’ stand after Swans legend Derek Marsh. 
Warm Swanage welcome for the former Para who’s raised £300,000 Swanage has given a hero’s welcome to a former paratrooper on an 8,500 mile charity walk around the entire UK coastline. 
‘Severe damage’ to Sandbanks Ferry delays its return to 2023 The ferry that normally operates between Sandbanks and Studland has been badly damaged while being towed to Falmouth for planned maintenance. 
Roadworks near Corfe Castle to continue for ‘further three days’ Temporary traffic lights, which are causing traffic queues on the A351 near Corfe Castle, are expected to stay in place for a few more days while BT repairs a collapsed ... 
New research claims eco moorings could save Studland’s seahorses A new type of boat mooring in Studland Bay could be the key to protecting seagrass – the essential habitat for seahorses - according to university researchers. 
Car crashes into terraced house in Swanage The owner of a property in Swanage was lucky not to be at home at the time, when a car crashed into their front room. 
Swanage remembers all those who died in war Remembrance Sunday events took place in Swanage although many attending, including the local MP, were delayed by travel chaos - WATCH PARADE AND CEREMONY 
Corfe Castle Club regains top title after two difficult years Real ale fans at the Corfe Castle Club have raised a toast to their bar which has been declared the best in Wessex - again. 
Swanage marks Armistice Day with two minute silence A service took place at the Swanage War Memorial to mark the anniversary of end of World War One and another commemoration will happen in Swanage on Remembrance Sunday - ... 
Berlin Wall is rebuilt in Purbeck forest as symbol of hope Seven huge sections of the Berlin Wall have been rebuilt in a Purbeck forest as a moving tribute to the fight against oppression. 
Nurses across Dorset vote for strike action Royal College of Nursing members at all of the NHS trusts that cover Dorset have voted to strike in a dispute over pay. 
Rough seas warning as Swanage RNLI search for person in difficulty In challenging weather conditions, Swanage Lifeboat crew joined Poole RNLI to look for a person after a sighting of someone in potential difficulty - WATCH VIDEO. 
More Swanage residents urged to consider hosting Ukrainian refugees Chance for residents in Swanage and across Purbeck to find out more about hosting Ukrainian refugees in a spare room, annex or AirBnB over winter. 
Swanage shoppers co-operate to raise bumper payout for charity An impressive £24,000 has been handed out to three local good causes by the Swanage Co-op. 
Thousand candles to light up Swanage Beach for loved ones A hospice care charity is organising a festival of lights on Swanage Beach to reflect, celebrate and remember everyone we love and care about. 
New 30 mph signs installed on main road into Swanage Drivers should now slow down sooner as they approach Swanage along the A351 road from Harmans Cross, following the reduction in the speed limit from 40 mph to 30 mph. 
What’s on in Swanage for Christmas 2022 There's plenty to do in the run up to Christmas in Swanage and the surrounding villages for 2022. 
Delve into Swanage’s history as centre opens its doors for weekend For the first time in three years, the Swanage History Centre is opening its archive to the public so they can find out more about Purbeck’s past. 
WW2 Valentine tank damage in Studland Bay prompts police inquiry Dorset Police are investigating the near destruction of a World War Two Valentine tank at the bottom of Studland Bay. 
Swanage and Poole RNLI join forces to rescue man with head injury A multi-agency evacuation effort was launched after a yacht heading towards Poole Harbour reported that a crew member was drifting in and out of consciousness. 
Flying Scotsman boosts Swanage economy as thousands visit Fresh from a major overhaul, the iconic steam locomotive’s visit to Swanage Railway has attracted crowds of admirers. 
Kimmeridge oil well to stop contentious burning of waste gases A controversial gas flare which burns off methane along the World Heritage coastline at Kimmeridge could be extinguished within three months. 
Purbeck secret garden seeks official status as visitor attraction A retrospective planning permission application has been submitted by the owner of a once derelict Victorian walled garden near Wareham. 
Swanage aims to take back control over town planning Work has begun to create a neighbourhood plan for Swanage which is likely to include new policies on affordable housing, second homes and new building developments. 
Purbeck to face weeks of transport disruption despite protests Studland Parish Council says it’s ‘appalled’ that a main road into the village is to be closed at the same time as the Sandbanks Ferry is out of action for ... 
Swanage to pilot scheme to improve access to cash after bank closures An action group made up of financial institutions and consumer groups has visited Swanage to work out a plan to ensure the town still has a guaranteed supply of cash. 
BBC faces Lulworth ban after Doctor Who ‘deceit’ at Durdle Door The BBC may be banned from filming at Lulworth Cove again after it was accused of irresponsibility by showing Doctor Who regenerating on top of Durdle Door. 
Meeting about future of Swanage Hospital and local healthcare Amidst a national crisis in the NHS, the Friends of Swanage Hospital is holding a meeting, open to all, about future local healthcare changes. 
Top author from Wareham gives boost to local library Successful children’s author Rachel Bright has cleared a space in her busy autumn diary to support Wareham Library. 
Swanage star charged extra to take home Best Actress award Swanage actress Nicole Faraday has picked up the biggest award of her life at an international film festival - and was promptly charged excess baggage fees to bring it back ... 
New 30 mph limit for approach road to Swanage The current 40 mph speed limit on the A351 road coming into Swanage from Harmans Cross is to be lowered to 30mph by Dorset Council. 
Cause of Sandbanks wing walker plane crash revealed by report The Air Accidents Investigation Branch has published its report into why, during Bournemouth Air Festival in 2021, an aerobatic wing walker plane lost power and dramatically ditched in Poole Harbour. 
New Swanage webcam launched with panoramic view of bay A new webcam with a spectacular view over Swanage Bay has just started streaming 24 hours a day. 
Fire crews navigate railway crowds to reach Swanage garage fire Shortly after the steam locomotive Flying Scotsman arrived in Swanage, the local fire station received a report that a garage was on fire. 
Flying Scotsman: World’s most famous loco arrives in Swanage Welcomed by crowds eager to get a good photo, the record breaking locomotive steamed into Swanage for a three week flying visit - WATCH VIDEO 
Swanage students open a new art trail to celebrate the pier’s past Art students have helped create a new interactive arts trail on Swanage Pier, linking the heritage of the town's tourism with its industrial past. 
Swanage Railway marks 50 years of battling to restore branch line Two rail enthusiasts who started the fight in 1972 to save Swanage Railway, returned 50 years later to pay tribute to all the volunteers. 
Purbeck farmer expands pick your own pumpkin to meet growing demand There’s no trick about the latest treat from a Purbeck fruit farm - pick your own pumpkin month at Lenctenbury Farm, near Corfe Castle, has become a screaming success. 
What next for Durlston after pleasure grounds success? The team who made the restoration of the pleasure grounds at Durlston Country Park in Swanage possible, gathered to mark the end of the highly successful four year project. 
New plans proposed to redevelop Studland hotel The owners of the Knoll House Hotel in Studland are poised to put in a new planning application to totally rebuild the site, after a previous application was turned down. 
Short films starring Purbeck released after festival premiere First shown at The Mowlem in Swanage during the recent Planet Purbeck Festival, three short films featuring among other things, seahorses, cows and beavers, have been released online. 
New Swanage Post Office opens on time despite Liam’s cancer setback Postmaster Liam Searle has managed to open Swanage’s new Post Office on schedule, despite having to beat off a dangerously aggressive cancer at the same time. 
Climbing rope hanging over Anvil Point cliff sparks full scale search A concerned member of the public alerted the emergency services when a climbing rope was discovered on a cliff near Swanage but there was no sign of a climber. 
Winners of the Swanage Community Awards 2022 announced Swanage residents, who were judged to have excelled in their contribution to the town in 2022, were presented with a community award at a ceremony in Swanage. 
Base jumper breaks both legs near Durdle Door and calls 999 himself A man who parachuted off the top of Swyre Head near Durdle Door in Dorset, received serious injuries to his legs when he hit the cliff part way down. 
Top Swanage fundraiser achieves her half pipe dream One of the best half pipe ramps in southern England has been unveiled at Swanage Skatepark thanks to the impressive determination of Swanage resident Lorna Haines. 
Swanage Carnival raises record breaking amount for good causes Swanage Carnival has revealed it raised more money than ever before, despite increased costs and two successive years of cancellations. 
Purbeck village set to be among first in Dorset to apply for 20 mph limit Campaigners in Langton Matravers near Swanage are all geared up to permanently lower the speed through the centre of the village to 20 mph. 
New consultation on future of Swanage Library Dorset Council is undertaking a second consultation on the future for libraries in its area including Swanage, with the promise that closing them isn't part of the plan. 
Studland faces ‘double whammy’ with ferry and main road closure Studland Parish Council is calling for a rethink on the decision to close a main road into the village for roadworks at the same time as the Sandbanks Ferry shuts ... 
Swanage festival is best value in UK as entrance fee stays at 2012 price The best-value entrance ticket in live music events anywhere in the UK has just gone on sale in Swanage - and it hasn’t risen in cost since 2012. 
Swanage Fire crews tackle chimney fire as weather gets colder A chimney caught alight at a cottage in Rempstone near Corfe Castle and was extinguished by crews from Swanage Fire Station. 
Purbeck Cider Company back from the brink of disaster Two years after fearing his business wouldn’t survive, founder of Purbeck Cider Company Joe Hartle is now looking to expand. 
Planning starts for revamp of Swanage seafront Work has begun to create a long term vision for the seafront from Swanage Pier to the stream at Ocean Bay in Swanage. Entries open for new Purbeck business awards A new awards scheme has been launched, not as an excuse for a party but to recognise the quality and range of businesses across Purbeck, according to its organiser. 
Tractor and power tools stolen from Wareham beauty spot A Wareham man has been arrested after machinery was reported stolen from Blue Pool near Wareham. 
Pick up energy saving tips by visiting Purbeck’s eco homes Residents in Swanage and across Purbeck are inviting others to come and see the measures they’ve taken to make their homes greener and more energy efficient. 
Kimmeridge nurdle hunt to help save Purbeck’s sea life The Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge is highlighting the threat of tiny bits of plastic called nurdles that end up on our beaches. 
Swanage’s seafront road to stay closed to traffic this winter The south end of Shore Road in Swanage, which is closed during the summer from The Mowlem to the junction with Victoria Avenue, is not to reopen to vehicles during ... 
Studland Master of Wine toasts new chapter for Purbeck U3A The first in-person guest speaker after lockdown for Purbeck University of the Third Age was an expert in wine. 
Kingston’s old church finally sells at auction for half a million pounds The former church in Kingston near Swanage with spectacular views of Corfe Castle, has finally sold at auction after an earlier million pound deal fell through. 
Durlston Country Park to bring in new way to pay for parking An automatic number plate recognition system to pay for parking is to be introduced at Durlston Country Park in Swanage. 
Two women sought after pensioner loses £1,000 cash in Wareham Dorset Police have issued CCTV images of two women they would like to identify following a distraction theft in Wareham. 
Purbeck farmer attacked by man after dog chases sheep Dorset Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward following an assault on a farmer in a field near Wool in Purbeck. 
Swanage sea rowers rescue paddle boarders in trouble Two men fishing in Durlston Bay on a paddle board with no phone, radio nor lifejackets, were lucky to be spotted by a crew from Swanage Sea Rowing Club. 
Pop-up restaurant at Kimmeridge gets two years to prove itself Despite a recommendation to turn down the scheme, an alfresco restaurant along the Purbeck coastline has been given temporary permission to operate. 
Swanage’s care home residents get to offer their condolences The Swanage Town Mayor accompanied by her deputy, took the town’s book of condolence for the Queen to Swanage’s care homes. 
Climber dies after fall near Dancing Ledge Swanage lifeboats, along with three coastguard cliff rescue teams, a coastguard helicopter and air ambulance all dashed to rescue a man in his 60s. 
Mystery surrounds why there’s so few hedgehogs in Swanage A new map shows that Swanage has some of the lowest numbers of hedgehogs anywhere in Dorset. 
Last bank branch in Swanage closes its doors for final time Lloyds Bank has closed its branch in Swanage, ending its 126 year history in the town. 
Swanage couple get a final platinum anniversary card from the Queen One of the very last royal platinum anniversary cards from Queen Elizabeth II has been received by a Swanage couple. 
Historic maps to go on display in Swanage An exhibition featuring a private collection of maps and charts of Dorset, the world and the universe, is to open for just two days at All Saints Church Hall in ... 
Swanage safe haven scheme in fightback against drug gangs Blue ‘S’ posters have begun appearing in shops and businesses throughout Swanage indicating safe places for children to go if they feel threatened. 
Planet Purbeck to run a ‘fitting’ festival to honour the Queen Events at the Planet Purbeck Festival on the day of the Queen's funeral have been cancelled - but most of what's planned for the 10 day eco festival will still ... 
Swanage turns out to hear the royal proclamation The news of the accession of King Charles III to the throne was announced by the Swanage Town Mayor in a time-honoured tradition - WATCH VIDEO. 
Purbeck marks King’s accession as tributes continue for the Queen In Wareham and Corfe Castle, events took place to mark the accession of King Charles III, while mourning for the Queen continued. 
Swanage pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II A book of condolences has been opened at Swanage Library and people are being invited to lay flowers at the bandstand following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. 
Death of Queen Elizabeth II: Swanage pays its respects Across Swanage, flags were lowered as a mark of respect following the death of the Queen, the UK's longest-serving monarch. 
Huge queue for Swanage Town Council toilet meeting More than a hundred local residents turned out for a meeting about the toilets at Burlington Chine in Swanage, prompted by inaccurate information on social media. 
Fundraisers rally round to serve up new court for Swanage Tennis Club A new Astro-Turf court at Swanage Tennis Club is a smashing new hit, according to delighted club members 
Paddle steamer delayed in Swanage after man taken ill On its first visit back to Swanage in four years, The Waverley paddle steamer was held up, when a 71 year old man became unwell on board. 
Local musical talent on show at ‘feelgood’ Swanage concert Despite predictions of rain, the sun shone on the Music by the Sea concert in Swanage in memory of Will and Henry, two local lads who died tragically young. 
New day hospice service to start in Purbeck Lewis Manning Hospice Care is beginning a new day hospice service for people in Swanage and across Purbeck with life-limiting illnesses. 
Refocus for Purbeck wedding venue after Covid shutdowns The Covid pandemic has prompted a prestigious wedding venue near Corfe Castle to push forward with its redevelopment plans and to diversify its business. No criminal charges to be brought after Dancing Ledge death Following the death of a man in 2019 during a coasteering trip near Swanage, Dorset Police say they will not be bringing criminal charges. 
Flying Scotsman locomotive to make return trip to Swanage The most famous and iconic steam locomotive in the world is to return to Swanage Railway for a visit this autumn. 
Multiple trackside fires break out along Swanage Railway line Swanage Fire Station was called out to three separate fires all on the same day, next to the Swanage Railway track. 
Swanage emergency services to feature on BBC TV The exceptional teamwork of Swanage RNLI, coastguard and air ambulance is to be highlighted on the BBC. 
Swanage teacher, lifeboat volunteer and unsung hero finally honoured In an emotional ceremony in Swanage, a statue of Trevor Chadwick, who rescued 669 children from Prague in early 1939 from German occupation, was unveiled. 
Worth Matravers pub with fossil museum gets modern update The landlord of the Square and Compass pub in Worth Matravers may not be known for moving with the times but he’s just completed major new building work. 
Dramatic Purbeck viewpoint gets pop up art installation The ancient landscape at Swyre’s Head near Kingston in Dorset is temporarily getting a modern addition called The Wind Hive. 
Demand for Purbeck Ice Cream shows no signs of softening Ice cream sales are back to their pre-Covid levels for Purbeck Ice Cream despite the current financial pressures on household incomes. 
Swanage and Harmans Cross fete committees join forces In the spirit of cooperation, Swanage and Purbeck Rotary and the Harmans Cross village hall committee have been helping each other out, to make their separate summer fairs a success. 
Police arrest man in Wareham after reports of indecent exposure Officers investigating reports that a man exposed himself and sexually assaulted a teenage girl in Wareham are appealing for witnesses. 
Putting Purbeck’s ‘forgotten’ railway station on the map The smallest station on the Swanage Railway line, Herston Halt has been given a major sprucing up, helped by the Royal Corps of Signals. 
Swanage WW2 bomb survivors return 80 years to the day Two brothers, now in their 80s, led a ceremony in Swanage to remember the civilians who died in the town during a series of bombing raids. - WATCH VIDEO. 
Moving date for Swanage Post Office announced Swanage Post Office branch is relocating from Kings Road and views are being sought to help improve access and services when it moves to Institute Road. 
Swanage RNLI to get new lifeboat in 2023 The news that Swanage RNLI is to receive a brand new inshore lifeboat, comes at the end of its successful lifeboat week. 
Summer exhibition of art opens in Swanage to help ‘boost morale’ The Isle of Purbeck Arts Club summer exhibition is back with artwork and poetry plus a chance to find out more about the club. 
Controversial Purbeck wind turbines delayed by another year A windfarm at a Purbeck quarry, which was the subject of a 20-year planning battle, won't now be operational until 2023. 
Volunteers remove piles of rubbish from Durlston Bay by boat A team, including a Dorset-based record breaking swimmer, has cleared discarded lobster pots and other plastic from Durlston Bay in Swanage. 
Swanage RNLI search for missing kids during lifeboat week After a mother reported that her children hadn’t returned from swimming in Swanage Bay, the inshore lifeboat was launched to help look for them. 
Welcome return for Wareham Wednesdays as pirates invade! The major summer fundraiser for Wareham in Dorset - a series of Wednesdays in August with music, funfair stalls and fireworks at the quay - is back after three years. 
Songwriter returns to Swanage for ‘the most beautiful views’ Folk legend Richard Digance is making a return visit to The Mowlem in Swanage, a theatre he describes as having ‘the most beautiful views from a dressing room’ anywhere in ... 
Church Knowle fete draws crowds and runs out of vital supplies! The first three parishes fete for three years drew the crowds to Church Knowle, near Corfe Castle, and caused the organisers to run out of ice cream. 
Studland fire: Cars towed after driving over water hose to park Three cars were lifted and towed away and around 60 fines issued by Purbeck Police to vehicles hampering the work of the fire service following the Studland fire in Dorset. 
Campfire and barbecue found at scene of Studland Heath fire Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says it believes the cause of the Studland Heath fire in Dorset was a campfire and barbecue - WATCH AERIAL FOOTAGE OF FIRE. 
Fire crews stay overnight damping down hotspots after Studland fire In what Swanage Fire Station called “quite a day”, around 90 firefighters from across Dorset brought a huge fire under control - WATCH VIDEO. 
Studland cut off as fire breaks out across tinder dry heath Access to the Studland peninsula is closed as around 90 firefighters from across Dorset tackle a large heath fire that is on either side of Ferry Road. 
Psychedelic orchestra cycles from France to Corfe Castle for concert A very unusual orchestra is to arrive in Corfe Castle by bike, as part of a musical tour that started in France and will end in Dorset. 
Four fold increase in fires triggers a red alert for Dorset Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a red fire severity alert across its region after a dramatic increase in the number of fires in the open. 
Swanage Lifeboat Week launches for 2022 with brand new ducks! After an absence of two years, the major week-long fundraising event for Swanage RNLI is back, along with the ever popular duck race. 
Complete closure of Dorset mainline train service due to strike action The whole rail network across Dorset, including trains to and from Wareham and Weymouth, will cease to operate for two days during the peak tourist season. 
Dorset campaign boosted as some Co-op stores stop sale of barbecues Litter Free Dorset says it’s ‘redoubling’ its efforts to get disposable barbecues removed from shops as Southern Co-op said it was stopping sales. 
What a week – Swanage Carnival 2022 ends with a bang! With hot weather and top events, Swanage Carnival was a scorcher of a week with crowds flocking into the town - SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEOS. 
Swanage Railway suspends steam loco service after track side fire Following a large fire at Corfe Castle, a diesel train service will replace the steam locos on Swanage Railway "until further notice" - WATCH VIDEO. 
New CEO sees hard times ahead for Church Knowle animal charity The new CEO of the Margaret Green Animal Rescue Centre at Church Knowle says the charity faces ‘challenging times’ as it gears up for its animal dog show. 
Wartime bomb exploded by disposal team on Studland Beach A beach at Studland had to be closed so an old wartime shell could be detonated in a controlled explosion - WATCH VIDEO OF EXPLOSION. 
Swanage Carnival photo competition winners revealed The winners of the Swanage Carnival photomarathon have been announced and medals awarded for producing the best photos in just 48 hours. 
Swanage painters are back with a splash With plenty of new artwork, Swanage Painting Club’s summer exhibition has opened - the first time in two years. 
Woman receives eye injury from thrown keys in Wareham A man has been arrested after a set of car keys were thrown at a woman through an open car window outside a Wareham supermarket. 
Local community warned about second hand car scam in Dorset Police are urging anyone selling a second hand car to be on the lookout for two men who've visited homes in Dorset and tried to scam sellers out of thousands ... 
Huge Swanage party as carnival parade arrives in town Crowds flocked to Swanage’s seafront to view the carnival procession, back after a two year wait due to the pandemic. 
Old photos reveal the changing face of Swanage’s high street Posters have been springing up around the town centre as businesses celebrate shopping in bygone times, thanks to Swanage Museum. 
Swanage Carnival kicks off for 2022 after two year break Following an unprecedented two successive years of cancellations due to Covid restrictions, Swanage Carnival is finally back, bringing fun and good humoured mayhem to the town. 
Campsites across Dorset urged to think twice before lighting fires Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking campsite managers, particularly in rural areas like Purbeck, to consider preventing the use of barbecues. 
Indecent exposure incident on Sandbanks Ferry Officers investigating a report of indecent exposure on the Sandbanks Ferry in Dorset have released a photo of a man they would like to speak to. 
Swanage takes part in new coast path passport scheme A new way for walkers to keep track of their progress along the South West Coast Path has been launched and Swanage Information Centre is getting involved. 
Lloyds Bank cashpoint in Swanage to go when branch closes Along with the closure of the Lloyds Bank branch in Swanage, the cashpoint machine service is also to be removed. 
Near miss for Studland paddle boarders blown into path of ferry Dorset Police marine officers, out on patrol in Poole Harbour, had to be urgently diverted to help four paddle boarders that were heading into the shipping lane. 
Dorset Police update on assault outside Swanage bar A witness to an assault outside the East Bar in Swanage, in which one man received a serious head injury, is being sought by Dorset Police. Man arrested by police investigating Swanage burglary Dorset Police say that following an alleged burglary in Swanage, a man has been arrested. 
Durlston bus is back for summer school holidays ‘Use it or lose it’ is the message, as the Durlston Explorer bus service returns for just six weeks - a much shorter time than previous summers due to rising ... 
Dog lovers anger at National Trust restrictions on Purbeck heaths Some dog owners are at loggerheads with the National Trust after signs telling them to keep their pets on a lead appeared on open land near Corfe Castle. 
Corfe Castle pub gets creative to attract punters in uncertain times Following a difficult few years for the hospitality industry, The Greyhound in Corfe Castle is tempting pub-goers back. 
What’s on in Swanage for summer 2022 With schools out for summer, there’s a full programme of events happening in Swanage and across Purbeck. 
It’s no joke – Mr Punch signs three year deal with Swanage Town Council The traditional Punch and Judy puppet show is back on Swanage Beach and the mayor dropped by to deliver some good news. 
Have your say on boats mooring in Studland seahorse habitat Views are being sought on how best boats can continue to visit Studland Bay without affecting the seagrass habitat of the local seahorse population 
Wareham Fire crew tackle vehicle fires as heat rises With the hot weather continuing, a car at Durdle Door near Lulworth caught on fire, shortly followed by a lorry carrying hay near Dorchester. 
Woman breaks ankle slipping on rocks at Kimmeridge Swanage RNLI was called in to rescue an injured woman from the beach at Kimmeridge, as the terrain was too difficult to stretcher her to the ambulance. 
Football crazy badgers give Swanage Town Council £30,000 bill Badgers tunnelling under the entrance to Swanage’s football club are causing the road to collapse, leaving Swanage Town Council with a large repair bill. 
Friends of Swanage Hospital ‘appalled’ at weekend closure of minor injuries unit The friends group that supports and fundraises for Swanage Hospital says it’s “concerned and disappointed” that the MIU has been closed over the weekend. Swanage Hospital’s minor injuries unit to close over hot weekend Despite an expected surge in visitor numbers heading to Purbeck’s beaches, Swanage Hospital minor injuries unit is to temporarily close. 
Jury deliver verdict on death of Swanage teenager Gaia Pope At an inquest at Bournemouth Town Hall, a jury concluded that Gaia Pope's mental health and mental state probably caused or contributed to her death. 
New repair café to get things fixed at Corfe Castle Environment group Sustainable Swanage is spreading the message ‘Don’t end it, mend it’, as its third repair café takes place, this time at Sandy Hill Arts centre in Corfe Castle. 
Hospice services in Swanage to be funded by new charity shop A new era of bringing care into the homes of those with life-limiting illnesses in Swanage and across Purbeck, is being piloted by Lewis-Manning Hospice Care. 
Action to make Swanage Beach easier to access New matting to make it less challenging for wheelchairs and pushchairs to get across Swanage's soft sand, has been installed. 
Man with ‘Enzo’ tattoo sought by police after Swanage burglary As part of an investigation into a burglary in Swanage, Dorset Police have issued photos of a man they wish to speak to. 
Try paddleboard yoga at Swanage Pier’s first wellness weekend A weekend of activities from paddleboard yoga and kayaking to creative writing and drawing has been brought together by the Swanage Pier team, aimed at improving wellbeing. 
Climber recovering after 15 metre fall near Worth Matravers Emergency services were called to rescue a man who had fallen as he attempted to climb along the rock face at Winspit Quarry near Worth Matravers. 
Lockdown spurs new businesses to start in Swanage A passion for pizzas has led a Swanage couple to turn a business idea during lockdown into a flourishing mobile takeaway service. 
Dorset on ‘full standby’ as crowds head to the beach during heatwave With the temperature set to soar, Dorset Council says it’s prepared for the expected visitors and has put in measures to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe trip to the ... 
New charity shop to open in Swanage Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is opening a new shop in the centre of Swanage to fund its work helping those with life-limiting illnesses. 
Music fans expected to fill town for Swanage Jazz Festival The popular appeal of jazz by the sea means there’s just a few tickets left for the 31st Swanage Jazz Festival. 
Acclaimed author headlines Dorset energy debate on achieving net zero An impressive array of experts have been invited by eco groups Planet Purbeck and DorsetCAN to lead a public debate on the energy crisis. 
Marine adventures at Kimmeridge as part of national wildlife event Dolphin watching from the cliff-top look-out at Kimmeridge Bay is just one of the featured events in a fortnight of marine-themed activities organised by Dorset Wildlife Trust. 
Fresh clams to be sold in Swanage in new venture A Swanage fisherman has launched a new business selling locally caught clams. 
Thirty year stamp of approval for Worth Matravers firm A family-run business in Worth Matravers, which was inspired by a long ago trip to India, is celebrating 30 years of trading. 
Swanage Carnival announces new events for 2022 After a difficult few years of cancellations, Swanage Carnival is back with a jam packed programme. 
New royal work of art unveiled in Swanage for Platinum Jubilee To celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, a new mural created by local school children, has been officially unveiled by the Swanage Town Mayor - WATCH THE UNVEILING. 
‘Don’t feed the locals’ say Dorset campaign group With greedy gulls becoming increasingly aggressive, especially in seaside towns like Swanage, the Litter Free Dorset team is reminding visitors and the local community not to feed the seagulls. 
Swans to take on Poole Town football club in Swanage Poole Town football club has been invited to play a pre-season friendly at Swanage Town and Herston‘s home ground at Days Park to mark the official switching on of the ... 
‘Critical summer’ for future of Langton stone carving centre Burngate Purbeck Stone Centre at Langton Matravers has relaunched this summer following a tough two years when the pandemic threatened its existence. 
‘Devastating’ Stoborough heath fire caused by barbecue A fire started by a portable barbecue has ‘decimated’ a hectare of RSPB-owned heathland at Stoborough near Wareham, killing rare wildlife. 
Heath fire at Stoborough closes main Purbeck road Fire crews from across Dorset and Hampshire, including teams from Wareham and Swanage were called in to tackle a large heath fire - WATCH VIDEO. 
Swanage Lifeboat crew launch to another unconscious diver For the second weekend in a row, the Swanage Lifeboat crew and coastguard rescue helicopter had to be scrambled to help a diver in trouble. 
Purbeck tractor convoy returns to raise money for cancer treatment The Purbeck coast charity tractor run is back for a second yomp through the area taking in Wareham, Corfe Castle, Studland and Lulworth 
Budget supermarket proposed for Sandford The supermarket chain Lidl is holding a public consultation to gauge local support for a plan to build a new store at Sandford near Wareham. 
Swanage Fire crew tackles fires in Harmans Cross and Langton Amid an Amber wildfire alert due to the dry weather, Swanage Fire Station has been called out to two fires over separate days. 
Girl hospitalised following car collision in Wool Dorset Police are looking for the driver of a black Peugeot, after a car failed to stop in Wool following a collision with a pedestrian - a 10 year old ... 
Swanage museum doubles size of archive to cope with extra donations Swanage Museum is doubling the size of its archive to handle the influx of items and provide additional meeting, research and exhibition space. 
Swanage sea show goes swimmingly well Bathed in sunshine, an extraordinary performance of words, dance and swimming took place in Swanage on midsummer’s evening - WATCH VIDEO. 
CCTV image released following theft of e-bikes in Swanage Purbeck Police are appealing for anyone who has any information about the identity of a man, pictured on security camera footage in Swanage, to contact them after the theft of ... 
Swanage RNLI and rescue helicopter go to aid of unconscious diver In the first of three rescues in a day, the Swanage Lifeboat crew was called to help a diver pulled unconscious from the water at the location of the Kyarra ... 
Wild swimming just got wilder with unique Swanage show An extraordinary double bill of theatre about swimming in the sea is to take place on midsummer’s evening in Swanage. 
Swanage man wins trip of a lifetime to Vegas poker tournament A Swanage poker player is finding it hard to keep a straight face after being dealt a place in a competition in Las Vegas after winning a regional final. 
Swanage to get free air show as Red Arrows fly across bay Ahead of the Isle of Wight festival, Swanage will be treated to a military fly-past by the Red Arrows who will be crossing the bay before heading to the pop ... 
Swanage Railway’s vintage steam rally is back and it’s bigger Following the success of Swanage Railway’s first Roads to Rail steam event last year, it’s returning for 2022 with more steam traction engines and the chance to dress up in ... 
Missing 23 year old Swanage woman found Dorset Police officers searching for missing Swanage woman Grace Kent say she has been found safe and well. 
Action to safeguard Swanage’s footpaths urged by report A report detailing all of Swanage’s 34 miles of public paths and bridleways has made far reaching recommendations to maintain and enhance the network. 
Police seek witness to Bovington stabbing An image from CCTV has been released by Dorset Police in the hope of identifying a man who they believe witnessed a knife attack in Bovington in Purbeck. 
Local men arrested after serious assault outside Swanage bar Four arrests have been made following a disturbance outside a bar in Swanage which has left one man in hospital with a serious head injury. Man charged with ‘exposure incident’ in Studland Dorset Police say that a man from Weymouth is to appear in court in connection with an exposure incident in Studland and a second incident near Dorchester. 
Swanage RNLI go to aid of sailor with severed finger A crew member on a yacht near St Alban’s Head in Purbeck lost part of his finger and severely damaged two more. 
End of the Falklands War remembered in Swanage The 40th anniversary of the Falklands War was commemorated in a ceremony at the Swanage War Memorial - WATCH VIDEO 
Fresh look for Swanage hotel boosts wedding plans A Swanage hotel has undergone a major refurbishment to encourage more couples to use it as a wedding venue after one of the managers decided to hold his own wedding ... 
Swanage veterans to mark 40th anniversary of Falklands War Local ex-service members and those who wish to pay their respects are to gather for a service at the Swanage War Memorial. 
Swanage Mayor makes a splash at new water refill station A new drinking water fountain to promote the refill of bottles rather than single use plastic bottles has been officially opened by Swanage Town Mayor Tina Foster. 
Rollout of ‘ultrafast’ broadband in Swanage to start soon Swanage schools, Durlston Country Park and the tip in Swanage are to be among the first places in the UK to benefit from ‘next generation’ full-fibre broadband. 
Villages across Purbeck celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Street parties and Jubilee Big Lunches took place across Purbeck to mark 70 years of the Queen’s reign, undeterred by the forecast of showers. 
Swanage sailor beats illness to take 11th place in the world Despite a gruelling experience, Sam Whaley who learnt to sail at Swanage Sailing Club, has achieved a personal best at the Laser World Championships in Mexico. 
Living the dream as couple swop Paris and London for Corfe and Langton A couple are living out their lockdown dream in Purbeck in Dorset by serving food from a mobile catering van which they have kitted out in their own unique style. Swanage celebrates Queen’s 70 year reign with huge tea party Not a town to shy away from a festival, Swanage marked the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in style - SEE VIDEO AND PHOTOS. 
Beacons light up across Purbeck for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Crowds gathered to see the lighting of beacons across Purbeck including at Durlston Castle and Studland to mark 70 years of the Queen’s reign - WATCH VIDEO. 
Purbeck pirates lose out in clash with the Queen’s loyal supporters The Swanage and Purbeck Pirate Festival returns to the town after a three-year break but the swashbuckling fun has been scaled back by the Royalists! What’s happening for the Queen’s Jubilee in Swanage and Purbeck There’s plenty of celebrations planned across Purbeck to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee - WATCH SWANAGE ON THE BBC. 
Rental crisis forces emergency care couple out of Swanage A firefighter and a nurse say the lack of affordable rental properties is a crisis that’s driving them out of the town. 
New artistic talent given chance to shine at Purbeck Art Weeks After a turbulent few years for creative talent, the premier art festival in Swanage and across Purbeck is providing a platform for new artists to exhibit. 
Regeneration kicks off at last for Swanage’s football club After years of delays, partly due to the covid pandemic, work has finally started to upgrade the sports facility at Days Park starting with new floodlights. 
Swanage holiday park gets new owners and a new direction Swanage Bay View holiday home park – once owned by the town council – has new owners who plan to give the site more of a holiday resort feel. 
Abandoned disposable barbecue destroys boat at a Purbeck cove Despite campaigns across Dorset against the use of disposable barbecues, a boat at Chapman’s Pool in Dorset has been destroyed by fire started by a discarded disposable barbecue. 
Surge in school bookings means Swanage firms set for record year Swanage outdoor education businesses are riding the wave of a boom in school bookings with a record number of children signed up for 2022. 
Last celebration for the old Swanage Grammar School A final reunion for the old Swanage Grammar School brought together 170 people including former pupils and teachers. 
New mayor for Swanage elected as Avril Harris forced to stand down In a surprise move, councillors voted for a Tory candidate to replace Labour councillor Avril Harris as Swanage Town Mayor. Sandbanks Ferry to be out of service for five weeks The ferry that links Studland to Sandbanks in Dorset is to receive a full maintenance overhaul and refit which means it won’t be operational for about five weeks. 
Swanage RNLI goes to aid of yacht drifting towards cliffs The crew of a yacht between Durlston and St Alban’s Head, had to radio for assistance as the wind dropped. 
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. 
Ambitious recruitment target for Swanage’s gentle game of bowls Swanage Bowls Club is aiming to have more than a hundred members by the close of season as it launches a recruitment drive. 
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 ... 
Swanage Coastwatch webcam back online ‘by summer’ A new panoramic webcam has been installed at the Swanage NCI station after the previous one was damaged by storms. 
Stone carvings by Swanage students to go on pier to mark anniversary To help celebrate the 125th anniversary of Swanage Pier, pupils from The Swanage School have been learning the ancient local art of stone carving. 
History of Swanage high street revealed in new exhibition A major new exhibition at Swanage Museum features bygone photographs of the town’s shops and restaurants showing what Swanage town centre used to look like. 
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. 
Matt Le Tissier substituted as Swanage British Legion call off event Swanage Royal British Legion club has cancelled an event featuring Matt Le Tissier following the media controversy over comments the former Southampton and England footballer made on social media. 
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 ... 
Community group concerned by increase of lonely people in Swanage A growing number of people in Swanage are suffering from loneliness with some not even having left their homes since the start of Covid according to a local group which ... 
Corfe Castle art gallery branches out A new arts hub - based around the old Boilerhouse Gallery - has been launched in Corfe Castle with exhibitions, music and spoken word events planned throughout the summer. 
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. 
Built by quarrymen, a Swanage church marks 150 years A Swanage church which was built by quarrymen got a visit from the bishop to help celebrate this year's 150th anniversary. 
Popular seaside tea rooms to reopen in Swanage The much-loved Brook Tea Rooms in Swanage is reopening after a lengthy closure following the death of the previous owner. 
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. 
Getting back in the swing – a series of summer concerts for Swanage A programme of concerts in Swanage, aiming to raise a smile as well as money for charity, are hoping to hit the right note this summer. 
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 ... 
Old and new Swanage gardens opening for charity in 2022 An 88 year old gardener is celebrating nearly thirty years of opening her historic gardens, while another garden in Swanage is opening for the very first time. 
Swanage resident pioneers new 5G care monitor A Swanage resident is one of just three people in Dorset who helped in a ground breaking trial of a new 5G monitoring system for vulnerable and disabled people. 
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. 
Swanage bakery goes Italian as new owners take over The well-known Hayman's bakery in Swanage – popular for traditional British bread, cream cakes and pasties - has been bought by a Wareham firm that specialises in Italian cuisine. 
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. 
Race for Swanage beach huts leaves visitors out in the cold A surge in local people taking out bookings for seafront beach huts in Swanage could mean holidaymakers will struggle to find one this year. 
Lost BBC comedy tape found in Swanage Museum archive A recording of a long-lost BBC comedy show has been discovered among archive tapes belonging to Swanage museum. 
Chocolate firm founded in Swanage emerges from ‘challenging’ times Production has been flat out for the first ‘normal’ Easter in three years at the chocolate makers, which was founded in Swanage in 2002. 
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. 
Landlord’s surprise bequest spurs Corfe Castle museum refit An unexpected but very welcome bequest from a local pub landlord - known for his popular ‘lock-ins’ - will help towards improvements at Corfe Castle museum. 
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. 
Couple launch post lockdown venture in Swanage Studio South, located in the heart of Swanage, is aiming to create a hub for artists to draw or paint while relaxing and eating cake. 
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. 
Ace new facilities for Swanage Tennis Club after cash boost Swanage Tennis Club is to improve another of its tennis courts thanks to a generous donation served up by the Co-op. 
Swanage and St Alban’s Head Coastwatch to welcome visitors again The Coastwatch stations at Swanage and St Alban's Head, near Worth Matravers are reopening to the public after the lifting of Covid restrictions. 
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. 
New Swanage musical rolls off production line after three years Swanage Musical Theatre Company is back after a three year gap with a production of Made in Dagenham, the show about women factory workers and their fight for equal pay ... 
New owners of historic Swanage pub reveal tapas bar plans A brother and sister team are hoping to bring a taste of Spain to Swanage after buying the old Purbeck Hotel which has been standing disused for many years. 
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. 
Main Swanage road to be closed for repairs Pot holes along Kings Road West in Swanage are to be fixed but it will mean overnight closures for the resurfacing work to be carried out. 
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. 
Follow the yellow brick road to Corfe Castle! Members of Corfe Castle amateur dramatic group Double Act are hoping it will be third time lucky for their latest production, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. 
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. 
Post office service returns to Langton Matravers Filling the gap left when the old post office closed, a new outreach post office has started up in Langton Matravers near Swanage. 
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. Swanage man and Corfe Castle woman charged with drug offences Six people have been charged with conspiracy to supply cocaine, including four from Dorset, following an anti-drug operation. 
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. 
Crime novelist relaunches author events at Swanage Library An award-winning crime writer, who features Dorset as the setting for her novels, will be talking about her writing at Swanage Library. 
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. 
Plans to drive Isle of Purbeck golf club into UK top 100 revealed The Isle of Purbeck golf course in Studland is undergoing a million-pound makeover aimed at establishing it as one of the best in the country. 
Studland’s ‘king of the cocktail’ serves up a romantic surprise A bartender from a Studland hotel, who is used to winning top awards for his cocktails, has won the heart of his girlfriend with a touching musical proposal. 
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. 
Photo taken under Swanage Pier nets diver top award A Swanage photographer has won a top international award for his underwater picture taken beneath Swanage pier. 
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. 
Quarry near Swanage blasts a path to ‘net zero carbon’ future A lockdown project with a difference as a quarry near Swanage has spent the last two years reducing its carbon emissions. 
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 Blues Festival charts its way through ‘uncertain times’ The Blues Festival is back in Swanage with a stomping line up of acts and it's been nominated for Festival of the Year by the UK Blues Awards. 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. 
Soft launch of new ice cream shop in Swanage A new luxury ice cream shop, with a distinctively Dorset flavour, has opened its doors in Swanage town centre. 
Corfe Castle plans festivities for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations in Corfe Castle to mark the Queen's 70 year reign are being planned to match its Diamond Jubilee extravaganza in 2012. 
‘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. 
Dorset firm that’s adding juice to Swanage internet connections A Dorset communications company that specialises in connecting hard-to-reach areas to the internet has expanded its service in the Swanage area. 
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. 
Family fish and chip firm expands to prime site in Swanage Swanage is to get a new high-profile fish and chip restaurant to replace Harry Ramsden’s. 
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. 
Tender loving care – Swanage Railway nears target to finish restoration Swanage Railway has raised £20,000 towards the restoration of the tender belonging to a unique Victorian steam locomotive, but is still £5,000 short. 
Dorset Search and Rescue sees rise in mental health incidents A charity that helps find missing people in Dorset, including Purbeck, has seen an increase in call outs to deal with mental health issues. 
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. 
Theft from vehicles rises but overall crime falls in Purbeck Latest figures reveal a sharp increase in theft from vehicles last year across Purbeck including Swanage but Dorset Police say they've now got it under control. 
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. 
New self defence classes in Swanage to ‘help control fear’ A martial arts expert has started teaching self defence classes in Swanage, turning a bad experience of his own into something useful. 
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. 
Not just another brick in the wall – Swanage Brickworks takes top prize One of the oldest firms in Swanage has been honoured with a national award for its contribution to a prestigious new building in London. 
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. 
Jazz festival returns to Swanage after two year Covid break The line-up has been announced for this year’s Swanage Jazz Festival, back after a two-year absence because of Covid. 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. 
Massive Swanage street party planned for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee To celebrate the Queen's 70 year reign, events in Swanage are being planned across the June Bank Holiday weekend. 
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. 
Swanage Ambulance Car unstaffed while patient waiting times increase Swanage ambulance car has been sitting idle for up to three quarters of the month - at a time when emergency response times have more than doubled. 
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. 
Corfe gets a new castle but this time it’s for the kids! Work is nearing completion on a new play area for youngsters in Corfe Castle and it’s taken its inspiration from the village’s most famous landmark. 
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. 
Great grandson takes the helm at Swanage newsagents Jenkins newsagents in Swanage has been taken over by the great grandson of a former owner. 
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. 
Swanage Panto performers say: Covid? It’s behind us…! This year’s Swanage panto has been the ‘hardest ever’ with illness and positive Covid tests causing one cast member after another to miss rehearsals. 
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. 
Dramatic increase in waiting time for ambulances in Swanage High demand for ambulances in Swanage and the wider Purbeck area means average waiting times are now far longer than the national guidelines. 
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. 
The stories that made Swanage News headlines in 2021 It’s been an eventful year for Swanage and the surrounding areas and here's our pick of the top stories from 2021. 
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. 
Purbeck quarry celebrates its 100th anniversary A quarry at Worth Matravers - which supplies around half of Dorset’s crushed stone - is celebrating its centenary and a family achievement. 
Corfe Castle horse rider celebrates amazing year A disabled rider from Corfe Castle is celebrating a year like no other as she competed first at national and then international level. 
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. 
Swanage bike repair man changes gear to show off his art From bike art to North American Indian-inspired suncatchers as well as paintings by David Bowie tribute act, there’s plenty to discover at Artisans on the Beach in Swanage. 
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 retailers’ dismay at lack of Christmas shoppers Shopkeepers in Swanage are reporting a dramatic reduction in the number of Christmas shoppers leading to fears some could struggle to survive. 
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.