The Bournemouth One News Centre

All the news you need for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole with travel information and national headlines.

• Poole cruise planned for solar eclipse

  A special cruise will leave Poole Quay during August’s partial solar eclipse over Dorset. The two hour trip will depart on Wednesday the twelfth of August, taking passengers onto Poole Harbour as the Moon moves across part of the Sun. Open viewing decks will be available, alongside indoor lounges, an onboard bar and live commentary from the Coastal Cruises crew during the evening journey. Managing director Carol Scott described the unique cruise as a chance to see the eclipse from the water with family and friends.

• BCP Council recognised as first Nature Towns

  Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council has been recognised for its work to bring nature into urban communities. The council’s green initiatives have improved public health, supported economic growth and helped tackle inequality, while also strengthening climate resilience. Senior figures from national organisations visited the area to see the impact of these projects, including the transformation of parks and new community cafes. The council’s leadership is now being shared with other towns across the UK.

• Appeal following criminal damage to vehicles

  Five vehicles were found with smashed windows on Good Road in Poole after a suspected vandalism incident in the early morning. Dorset Police responded quickly but could not locate the two suspects, who were described by witnesses. Officers are now seeking help from the public, especially those with CCTV or dashcam footage from the area. The investigation continues as police urge anyone with information to come forward.

• Campaign to help keep emergency lines available

  Dorset Police are asking residents to contact the correct agency for non-police issues as call volumes rise. This summer, about one in five calls to police are unrelated to police matters and could be better handled by local authorities or utility companies. The campaign aims to reduce pressure on emergency lines and help the public get quicker support by directing them to the right service. Residents are reminded to use nine-nine-nine only for emergencies involving immediate danger or crimes in progress.

• Poole resident appointed chair of neighbourhood board

  Claire Starmer has been chosen as the independent chair of the Hamworthy West and Turlin Moor neighbourhood board, which will oversee a twenty million pound government investment over the next decade. The board, part of the Pride in Place programme, will decide how funding is allocated to best serve local residents. Claire Starmer, a resident of Turlin Moor for nearly thirty years, will work with the council, local MP, and partner organisations to ensure decisions reflect community needs. The board will spend six months gathering input from residents once fully formed.