Dorset

A THREE-year-old boy has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries after a horror van crash.

The tot was walking in a car park in Bournemouth, when a blue Vauxhall Vivaro hit him on Saturday.

Dorset Police were called to the scene, in Landsdowne Road, at 12.35pm.

Paramedics rushed the three-year-old to hospital with serious injuries.

His family is being supported by specialist officers.

No arrests have been made and the van driver is assisting officers with the investigation, said the force.

Sergeant Richard Stroud, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Our thoughts are with the young boy involved in this incident and his family.

“Our enquiries into what happened remain ongoing and I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information that might assist our investigation, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online, via email at [email protected] or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250147249.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

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A pretty UK seaside town may look like a picturesque holiday spot – but it has a dark history. Now locals are remembering those who were brutally killed in the 17th century with a new plaque

While it may be a picturesque seaside spot, this pretty town has quite a dark history behind it.

Weymouth is a seaside town located in Dorset, southern England and it’s know for it’s sandy beach, decorated with colourful beach huts and backed by Georgian houses. But what we see Weymouth as today was the total opposite to the dark chapter in history in the 17th century filled with brutal killings and bloody streets.

Two hundred and forty years ago, in September 1785, 12 local men were hanged, drawn and quartered in the town for their involvement in the Monmouth Rebellion.

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The brutal sentence was delivered by Judge Jeffreys at the Antelope Hotel in Dorchester during the infamous ‘Bloody Assizes’. This new plaque brings the total number of installations on the trail to 19.

Nowadays, Greenhill gardens is an award-winning gardens in Weymouth, with a tennis court, putting, bowling, live music events and two cafes. It has become a picturesque haven, beloved by locals and visitors for its vibrant floral displays and sweeping sea views, and the contrast between its serene present and brutal past adds a poignant depth to the town’s historical narrative.

Now locals from the We Are Weymouth group have unveiled a powerful new addition to the town’s heritage trail: a commemorative plaque on the Promenade at Greenhill, marking one of the darkest chapters in Weymouth’s history.

Graham Perry, chair of We Are Weymouth, said: “It is ironic that the first historical mention of Greenhill, one of the most beautiful spots in Weymouth, is in relation to this horrific event.

“The installation of this plaque helps us to remember the many layers of Weymouth’s history – both the celebrated and the sombre – and ensures they are not forgotten.”

The heritage trail, which celebrates the unification of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis in 1571 under Queen Elizabeth I, takes visitors on a journey through the town’s rich past. Highlights include the arrival of the Black Death, Weymouth’s rise as a Georgian resort, and its strategic role in the D-Day invasion.

Later this year, two additional plaques will be installed along Preston Beach, sharing stories from Lodmoor, a saltmarsh reserve with diverse wildlife, including waders, ducks, terns, and winter birds, and a reedbed with Bitterns and Bearded Tits.

Once complete, the trail will form a continuous historical journey from the Roman temple at Bowleaze to the iconic Nothe Fort, offering a superb and immersive experience for residents and visitors alike.

These initiatives reflect We Are Weymouth’s ongoing commitment to placemaking, community engagement, and celebrating the town’s unique heritage.

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DRAMATIC footage shows the moment a pensioner was rescued from the sunroof of his sinking Bentley after it plunged into the sea.

Retired funeral director Robert Hill had driven to a waterside car park before his motor suddenly accelerated and careered down concrete steps in Sandbanks, Dorset.

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The expensive bronze-coloured motor worth £50,000 hit the water after rolling down from the car park at around 5pm on Monday.

Mr Hill, 74, said he was unable to unwind the electric windows or open the door and feared he was about to drown as the interior started to fill with water.

But footage captured three brave shore fishermen jumping into the harbour and swimming to the car.

Two were seen clambering onto the bonnet of the semi-submerged car as they desperately tried to get a hold of Mr Hill.

Video captured the moment the 74-year-old was then pulled through the sunroof by the courageous strangers.

The brave trio then helped escort him back to shore as worried bystanders watched on.

But just moments after returning him to land, the Bentley sank to the seabed at the entrance to Poole Harbour.

Mr Hill, who was taken to hospital to be checked over, said: “To the men who swam into the water to get me out, I can’t thank them enough for saving my life.

“I would have died within five minutes if it hadn’t been for those chaps.”

Mr Hill recounted how he was slowly driving towards the kerb when “all of a sudden the engine revved up” and despite putting his foot on the electric brake,.

He added: “It was too late and my car did a dive into the water like a submarine.”

However, the 2013 Bentley was later winched from off the seabed by the Poole Harbour Commissioners as it posed a potential hazard to shipping.

It remains in the car park on the end of the Sandbanks peninsula.

Sandbanks is an affluent neighbourhood known for its high property prices.

Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and ex-Premier League boss Harry Redknapp live nearby.

In 2005 it was reported to have the fourth highest land value by area in the world.

A Poole Harbour Commissioners spokesperson said: “A car entered the water from the car park adjacent to the Sandbanks Ferry’s ramp at Sandbanks.

“The vehicle entered the water directly from the Ferry Way Car Park.

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“A number of local anglers and passers by sprang to their assistance and the sole occupant was assisted from the vehicle before it submerged.

“Divers and a crane were mobilised for recovery and the vehicle was lifted safely ashore at 10.30pm.

“We would like to take this opportunity to commend the swift and selfless efforts of those individuals on the quayside who assisted the gentleman from his car before it sank.

“We would also like to thank PHC staff, partner agencies and our contractors who worked late into the night, recovering the vehicle to ensure the safety of navigation and protection of the environment.

“We would like to take this opportunity to commend the swift and selfless efforts of those individuals who assisted the gentleman from his car.”

A PENSIONER is having to sell her home to cover a £113,000 legal bill after losing a five-year dispute over a 1ft strip of land.

Jenny Field, 76, was told to pay £14,000 after her initial court defeat to Pauline Clark, 64, but her repeated challenges saw the total rocket.

A judge has now told her she must pay the resultant £113,126 in three months or flog her £600,000 bungalow in Hamworthy, Dorset, so the cash can be recouped.

The divorcee told a court: “I am selling it because I have to and I’m fed up with living here but I will offer to pay her £1 per week.”

Their feud began in 2020 after Mrs Clark replaced a fence between the properties.

Ms Field claimed it had encroached on her garden and had it demolished, but Mrs Clark sued for damages and won the first case in 2022.

Several appeals followed and Ms Field was accused of wasting time by bombarding the court with papers.

A bid by her to sue for £500,000 in damages was also dismissed as “totally without merit”.

District Judge Ross Fentem said Mrs Clark had been kept from money owed to her for a long time and told Bournemouth county court the order for sale was “a last resort and draconian remedy”.

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A TEENAGER has received a criminal conviction for not being insured for her car – before she had received it for her 18th birthday.

The waitress, from Poole in Dorset, was gifted a Fiat for her landmark birthday, but mistakenly did not insure it immediately.

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The teen explained in a letter to Ipswich magistrates court that she never drove the car as she had not received her licence at the time of the offence.

However, the DVLA charged her with keeping an uninsured vehicle and brought a criminal prosecution over the unpaid bill.

She pleaded guilty to the offence, which took place a few weeks before her 18th birthday.

“My family got the car for me as my 18th birthday present,” she wrote.

“I was still 17 at the time of the offence and had not actually been given the keys to the car and was not aware that it would be mine.”

She added that she and her dad have reading difficulties, and only realised the seriousness of what was happening when a friend read her the official letter.

She continued: “I have never used the car as I have still not passed my driving test.

“My dad is willing to pay the fine for me as he thinks this is his fault.

“He receives Universal Credit and PIP for his mental health, and I have just finished college and currently have a part-time job as a waitress on the minimum wage for an 18-year-old.

“I was a good student in school and college studying art and have never been in any trouble in my life.

“We just misunderstood the letter, I thought it said I had to SORN it or pay a fine if it doesn’t get sorted.

“I am very sorry.”

A magistrate slapped the teen with a 12-month conditional discharge instead of a fine.

But she chose not to send the case back to the DVLA for an extra public interest check.

The teen will now have a criminal conviction, and must also pay a £20 court fee.

It comes after news that one in six drivers admitted they have been behind the wheel without insurance.

A poll of 2,000 adults found 24 per cent of these did so only on a short journey, believing cover wasn’t necessary.

A fifth unknowingly committed the offence when their policy had expired, but 17 per cent did it as they wanted to save money.

And 15 percent drove uninsured because renewing their policy was a life admin task they kept putting off renewing.

Learner drivers are twice as likely to drive uninsured compared to those with a full driving license (37 per cent).

James Armstrong, a young driver expert at flexible car insurer Veygo, which commissioned the research, said: “Driving without insurance is a serious offence that can result in hefty fines, points on your licence, or even having your car seized.

“It’s worrying to see so many people are driving uninsured, especially as there are affordable options available for short-term cover.”

PLANS for a giant new village next to a UK holiday hotspot with 1200 homes have now been unveiled.

The proposals to launch Canford Garden Village in Dorset will be essential in tackling the ever-pressing housing crisis in the UK.

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The Canford scheme aims to create a new community focusing on family housing and social infrastructure.

The site will be located near Wimborne in Dorset, and it is thought to be prime real estate, according to W.H. White.

W.H White are behind the plans which were submitted to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP).

The plans are to build 1200 new homes across the 230 hectares site, creating a characterful village which is architecturally striking which fits within the landscape.

In order to help ease the housing crisis currently taking hold of the UK, it has been reported that 40 per cent of the new buildings will be affordable homes.

What’s more, it will not be just a housing development, as the plans recognise the need for supporting infrastructure.

For example, there will be a community hub, flexible workspaces, community facilities, and a care home.

There will also be education and healthcare provision, as well as local infrastructure improvements to ease the pressure that would be placed on surrounding areas.

A total of 600 of the homes would be dedicated to first-time buyers, social rent and shared ownership schemes.

Scott Worsfold Associates were selected to create a complete design vision.

The plans for the site were was unanimously approved for a new sustainable community in March 2021 by the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council.

The land used to be a former quarry and golf course, and will now be made into a biodiverse community.

Current farmland is also earmarked to be turned into 90 hectares of publicly available green space with new habitats and allotments.

The proposal has garnered support from various stakeholders, including Dorset Chamber and Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, who emphasise the economic benefits and job creation potential of the development.

However there has been some backlash to the proposals.

It was reported that there were critics to the plan due to concerns regarding the potential impact on existing infrastructure, traffic congestion, and highway safety, particularly concerning access to the site from Blandford Road.

Some were also concerned about the proximity to existing facilities like Lockyer’s Middle School, which could cause longterm disruption. 

Ward councillor for Bearwood and Merley, Richard Burton, said: “We’ve had a lot of development in Bearwood and therefore I know my residents will be very worried about this because of the impact it could have.” 

However, he said the scheme is in the very early stages and this scoping application does not mean the local authority is supporting it. 

“From a political point of view, I do totally understand that we need more affordable housing in BCP, but just choosing the easiest places to build, which is currently Green Belt, isn’t the way forward and it’s not sustainable,” said Cllr Burton. 

W.H. White said there would be a commitment to low carbon construction with solar energy, ground source heating and opportunities for localised renewable energy. 

A spokesperson for W.H. White said: “The current shortfall in housing supply, combined with well-documented viability challenges of delivering homes on urban land, has prompted renewed interest in strategic and deliverable opportunities such as at Canford Village.”

BCP Council previously said it would soon initiate a new call for potential development sites in the conurbation as part of ongoing efforts to deliver new homes.

Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, previously said: “It is important that we balance our future development priorities whilst protecting the beautiful area that we live in and the precious natural environment we are so lucky to have.”

A popular stretch of coast renowned for its sugar-like sand and cobalt waters is cracking down on two common tourist activities – which now risk fines of up to £100 or £1,000 if you’re taken to court

A ‘glorious’ slice of the UK coast has unveiled a major tourist clampdown ahead of the busy summer holidays. Situated in the idyllic Dorset National Landscape, and boasting four miles of pristine beach framed by rugged dunes and lush cliffs, lies the acclaimed Studland Bay.

Often touted as a ‘tropical paradise’ due to its sugar-like sand and crystal-clear waters, the hotspot wouldn’t look out of place if it moved over to the picturesque Caribbean. The bay comprises of four beaches: Shell Bay, Knoll Beach, South Beach, and Middle Beach, all of which have been managed by the National Trust since 1982.

READ MORE: ‘Rundown’ UK seaside town dealt major blow as iconic attraction goes up for sale

But, earlier this year – the Mirror reported on how Dorset Council was mulling over two new Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) to tackle issues such as wildfires and anti-social behaviour.

Now, Dorset Council has confirmed the extension of its current PSPOs, which will be in place for another three years. These orders clamp down on drinking alcohol in public places, feeding gulls, overnight camping on beaches, lighting of fires and BBQs on open land, as well as ‘aggressive begging’.

The council has also extended the overnight camping ban to include Studland Beach, in a move to ‘protect the sensitive coastal environment’. Tourists found breaking this rule could be fined up to £100.

It has also expanded restrictions on lighting fires and BBQs to cover additional areas of heathland and forest across Dorset. Again, flouting this PSPO can result in a hefty penalty.

If you pay the fixed penalty notice, the offence is discharged and no further action is taken. However, if the fixed penalty notice is not paid, you may be liable on summary conviction in a Magistrates Court to a fine not exceeding £1,000.

“Renewing our existing PSPOs means continuing the important safeguards that have been in place for several years—protections our residents have told us they value,” said Councillor Gill Taylor. “In addition to these renewals, we’re introducing two new Orders: one to help preserve the natural beauty and tranquillity of Studland Beach, and another to protect our rare heathland habitats, which are home to some of the UK’s most endangered wildlife.

“Dorset should be an enjoyable place for our residents and visitors alike. By working with our partners, these Orders help us to deal with a small minority of people who can spoil it for others.”

Shaun Milton of Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, also welcomed the move – reminding Brits of the ‘devastating’ Wareham Forest fire in 2020 which destroyed more than 220 hectares of forest and heathland. This is the equivalent of more than 230 football pitches. “Preventing fires before they start is the most effective way to protect lives, property, and the environment,” he added.

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Highcliffe Beach is a stunning Blue Flag beach which is the perfect spot for a day out or a summer break away from the crowds, with plenty of greenery and sand dunes

Tucked between the historic Dorset town of Christchurch and the village of Highcliffe-on-Sea, lies a hidden gem of a beach, surrounded by lush greenery and sand dunes. Highcliffe Beach, a beautiful Blue Flag beach, is an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend summer getaway from the daily grind.

Highcliffe boasts breathtaking views of the Isle of Wight and the Needles, straddling the Dorset-Hampshire border. It’s a favourite amongst both tourists and locals. The beach offers a mix of shingle and sand, making it the perfect spot to pitch up for a sun-soaked day. It’s a hotspot for swimmers and surfers alike, so remember to pack your bodyboard.

For those who enjoy a good stroll, there’s a 2.5-mile walk along the beach leading to Mudeford Quay. From here, you can hop on a ferry to Mudeford Sandbank, or continue your journey to Hengistbury Head and then all the way along the promenade to Bournemouth Pier, reports the Express.

While it is a dog-friendly beach, Visit South East England advises that our four-legged friends are not allowed between groynes H8 and H11 from May 1 to September 30. However, dogs on leads are welcome all year round.

Previous beachgoers have lavished praise on the coastal gem, describing it as a “wonderful stretch of coastline” with “incredible views”. ECC shared their thoughts on Tripadvisor: “Wonderful stretch of coastline. Incredible views. No roads in sight once down by the sea. Nice cliff top cafe/restaurant. Public toilets. No showers. Beach is a lovely mix of sand, stones, small boulders. Paddle boarders, surfers, swimmers even in freezing weather! Dog heaven.”

Anna also chimed in: “A very lovely place. We were able to walk even with our daughter who is a wheelchair user. Amazing view, great parking (accepts only coins) and lovely cafe and ice cream van on the right side it’s rocky beach and on the left side sandy beach (dogs friendly) so everyone can find something lovely.”

Tracey didn’t hold back her admiration either, saying: “An absolutely stunning beach with soft silky sand making it perfect to gently stroll along, or to just sit peacefully with your family for a great day of fun with or without a tasty picnic.”

Just a stone’s throw away from the beach’s dunes stands Highcliffe Castle. Constructed in the 1830s, this historic edifice is heralded as one of the most significant remaining structures built in the Romantic and Picturesque architectural style.

Lord Stuart de Rothesay took inspiration from his grandfather, the third Earl of Bute, who had previously constructed on the castle’s site. The castle has welcomed a host of renowned figures throughout its history, including Kaiser Wilhelm, four-time prime minister William Gladstone, and author and socialite Nancy Mitford, from the notorious Mitford family.

In more recent times, Highcliffe served various purposes such as a children’s home and a training centre for the Claretian Fathers, a Catholic Church order, before enduring two fires and descending into disrepair.

Since then, the castle has been lovingly restored to its former splendour, serving as a venue for weddings, performances, fairs, and exhibitions.

A hidden and ‘unspoilt’ beach offers one of England’s most tranquil summer escapes – a far cry from the crowded sands of nearby Weymouth in Dorset

As Europe’s coastal hotspots grapple with the strain of overtourism, many Brits are seeking summer retreats closer to home. And one UK location fits the bill perfectly.

Ringstead Bay has been dubbed an ‘unspoilt beach‘ by the National Trust, offering breathtaking beauty without the tourist crowds. While Weymouth’s golden sands and lively promenade in Dorset attract over 3.7 million visitors each year, according to local council figures, nearby Ringstead Bay provides a peaceful alternative.

Nestled between Weymouth and Lulworth Cove, this tranquil shingle beach has been recognised as one of England’s least crowded coastal getaways, perfect for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle.

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Laura Miller, marketing head at Away Resorts, said: “If you’re seeking a tranquil and secluded beach in Dorset, Ringstead Bay stands out as a hidden gem.” Miller continues: “Nestled between Weymouth and Lulworth Cove, this quiet shingle and pebble beach offers clear waters, scenic coastal walks, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.”

Just six miles from Ringstead lies the historic town of Weymouth, one of the UK’s oldest and most charming seaside resorts, reports the Express. It features a Georgian seafront, a vibrant harbour brimming with pubs and cafes, and traditional family attractions like donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows.

The town’s rich maritime history adds depth to its cheerful seaside allure. Despite the bustling popularity of Weymouth, Ringstead Bay has managed to retain its untouched charm.

It’s less commercialised, offering limited amenities but an abundance of raw, natural beauty that’s ideal for a more tranquil day out. The bay is nestled within the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its fossil-rich cliffs and striking geological formations.

Those who venture the short distance from Weymouth to Ringstead are rewarded with open space, stunning sea views, and the soothing sound of waves. So if you are planning a British beach holiday this summer, this lesser-known gem near one of the south coast’s most picturesque towns is certainly worth the detour.

Beyond Weymouth and Ringstead, there are a wealth of places to discover along the West Dorset coast. Another gem to stop-by if you’re planning a multi-town trip is the seaside resort of Lyme Regis. The town is home to golden sand beaches as well as a picturesque harbour.

Lyme Regis also has safe bathing waters protected by the iconic Cobb, which you may recognise from the film The French Lieutenant’s Woman. The town’s nickname is ‘The Pearl of Dorset’ and one of its biggest events is the annual Fossil Festival every May – which includes talks, walks, live music and theatre.

ASTON VILLA want to hijack Bournemouth’s move for Rennes skipper Adrien Truffert.

Villa look keen on the left-back and could swoop for the 23-year-old if they can quickly sell a player.

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The Cherries are close to agreeing a £20million deal for France international Truffert.

They see him as a replacement for Milos Kerkez, who is expected to join Liverpool.

Truffert has scored two goals and provided two assists in 33 Ligue 1 games this season.

But the 23-year-old has understandably struggled to get into France‘s star-studded squad.

The full-back has made just one appearances for the Les Bleus, after receiving his first call-up fir two Uefa Nations League matches.

The switches get more complicated when you consider that Bournemouth were interested in Anfield left-back Andy Robertson.

The Villa Park outfit may struggle to bring the 32-year-old Scot to the West Midlands, considering Arne Slot’s stance on an exit.

Unai Emery is believed to be in the market for a new left-back with Frenchman Lucas Digne and Ian Maatsen failing to impress the Spaniard.

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Bournemouth are also in the market for Spanish keeper Joan Garcia, who was linked with Arsenal.

The 24-year-old is set to sign for Barcelona from Espanyol — but could then be loaned out for a season in the Premier League.

Seatown beach in Dorset is a stunning spot with golden sands and clear waters – and the best part is you can park your car right on the beach before enjoying a drink at the nearby pub

The sea might be a bit nippy, but the weather is still mild and a day trip to the beach is a cracking way to spend a sunny day. It’s even better if there’s a pub just a stone’s throw from the beach. Dorset is one part of the UK blessed with stunning beaches.

A short drive from Lyme Regis, you’ll find the charming village of Seatown which boasts a splendid beach where you can literally park your car right next to the sand. Once you’ve arrived, you can either head straight for the beach or take a stroll along one of the breathtaking cliffs that offer panoramic views over Golden Cap and beyond.

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For those in need of a drink after a day on the beach, The Anchor Inn is a snug pub located right by the water’s edge. Famous for its seafood, visitors come here to enjoy a glass of wine and savour the fresh fish dishes whilst taking in the spectacular views.

Seatown is a mesmerising spot, especially during the height of summer when a pizza oven and a cafe shack serving top-quality coffee are set up directly on the beach.

It’s also incredibly handy with parking available near the beach, making it a perfect location for a family day out by the sea, reports Devon Live.

For those who fancy staying a bit longer, there’s a delightful campsite located right on the beach, complete with excellent picnic areas and its own grocery shop.

Alternatively, you could book a room at the pub and settle in for the night.

Holidaymakers have heaped praise on an award-winning apartment with ‘stunning sea views’

UK tourists seeking a coastal getaway love escaping it all in Weymouth. Found in Dorset, the picturesque town boasts a charming harbour and golden sands. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination for families.

Holidaymakers looking for accommodation love Wessex View, an award-winning apartment listed on Sykes Holiday Cottages. It was the gold winner of ‘Best for Beaches’ in the Sykes Gems 2023 Awards. The well-reviewed property has received lots of praise for its “perfect location” and “fantastic sea views.”

However, while it is in “a prime position on the esplanade”, guests said it’s on “a very busy road,” with some reviewers commenting on “traffic noise.” Another option for visitors could be Lavender House Weymouth, a five-bedroom house found on Booking.com.

There’s also The Yellow One, an apartment that accommodates two guests, found on holidaycottages.co.uk, and Outlook Lodge, which sleeps four guests, found on Dream Cottages.

Wessex View sleeps four guests and offers off-road parking for one car. However, pets are not allowed at the property. The accommodation listing says: “Experience stunning sea views from this beautifully presented ground-floor apartment, Wessex View, located in the popular seaside resort of Weymouth in Dorset. It enjoys a prime position on the esplanade, just a few moments from the golden, sandy beach.

“The accommodation lies all on one level, aside from some steps leading down into the twin bedroom, and is suited best to a family of four or perhaps a couples break.” While there’s only limited availability for this summer, you could book four nights from May 31 for £630, three nights from September 6 for £636, or seven nights from September 27 for £630.

Reviewers loved the views from the apartment, though some raised issues with the accommodation. A guest praised: “Beautiful flat. Enjoyed watching the sunrise every morning from the big windows with an uninterrupted view of the sea. Beds were also comfortable. Plenty of toys and board games available to keep the kids happy.”

Someone else wrote: “Absolutely lovely apartment. It was so thoughtfully furnished and such a breath of fresh air to have so many items that are suitable for families. Perfect location for the beach and for looking out to sea over a morning coffee. Totally gorgeous.”

However, a different reviewer commented: “We had a lovely week. The flat was very clean and had everything we needed and plenty of space for the two of us. The seaview is a big plus. The only disappointments were that it stands on a very busy road, though maybe we shouldn’t have been surprised, given its location, and that we couldn’t get wifi in the twin bedroom, neither of which would stop us staying again as we loved being so close to the sea for our morning dips.”

Someone else with mixed feedback replied: “Excellent location, just across the road from the beach and short walk to the town/harbour. So many beautiful walking routes close by. The view of the sea from the lounge was amazing.

“The apartment was comfortable with good facilities. Off road car parking was definitely a bonus. The only negative for us was the lack of windows in the bedrooms, having said that, this would not prevent us from booking here again as the positives far out way this negative.”

Meanwhile, a reviewer thought: “Superb property, exactly as listed and in a perfect location on esplanade with beach and all amenities on doorstep. Very practical layout and star attraction being front room with huge windows overlooking sea. Had a perfect stay and one of our family’s favourite UK breaks ever.

“If there’s an observation, it’s the double bedroom – a little on the small side with minimal storage and a seemingly worn and uncomfortable mattress. Nothing some shelving in wardrobe and a new mattress wouldn’t resolve. Overall, an amazing property for our holiday.”

A similar response read: “Wessex View is a beautiful property with period features and an amazing view. The road is busy and obviously there was traffic noise but we expected this. There was everything we could need in the flat & it’s just a short walk into town. The only issue for us was the mattress which wasn’t the most comfortable if you have back problems.”

A famous UK seaside resort grappling with anti-social behaviour and constant smells of drugs has seen its high-acclaimed beach lose out on a prestigious award this year

The faultless reputation of one of the UK’s most iconic seaside resorts has taken a tumble after its three-mile beach was stripped of a prestigious award. Situated in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, and surrounded by lush Dorset countryside – Weymouth attracts a staggering two million day trippers every single year.

Steeped in history and boasting a charming town centre, the resort’s pièce de résistance has often been its golden sand beach.

“Weymouth’s sheltered bay, gradual sloping seabed and exquisite waters offer swimmers, bathers and water sports enthusiasts idyllic and safe conditions to suit every taste,” hailed Visit Dorset, the area’s official tourist board. “The internationally recognised beach is a frequent host to festivals, sporting championships and a wide range of events for all to enjoy.”

Weymouth Central Beach, which has often been regarded as one of the best slices of coast in Europe, was even frequented by King George III in the late 1700s. But, after its water quality was downgraded from ‘excellent’ to ‘good’ by the Environment Agency at the end of 2024, Weymouth has waved goodbye to its Blue Flag status.

READ MORE: ‘Deserted’ UK beach boasts three-miles of golden sand but getting there isn’t easy

Earlier this year, Matt Bell, chair of Weymouth Town Council’s Environment and Services Committee, described the review as ‘disappointing’. The council is reportedly working with agencies to tackle its dip in water quality to ‘improve the situation’.

Despite being robbed of the accolade, Weymouth Beach was given a Seaside Award – which aims to recognise ‘quality and diversity’ and focuses more on well-managed, clean beaches as opposed to factors like water quality. “We are delighted to be awarded the prestigious Seaside Award for another year. Weymouth Beach is such a fantastic resource for our residents,” Weymouth Town Council’s Town Clerk Jane Biscombe said, according to the BBC.

However, losing its Blue Flag gong isn’t the only problem plaguing the region. As previously reported, swathes of business owners and residents claim their home is being ruined by ‘moronic’ anti-social behaviour, and the constant stink of drugs.

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“It’s definitely got worse,” argues Lee Waugh, 57, a military veteran who has lived in Weymouth since his teenage years. “The levels of the problems seem to be higher. For example, we need tables out the front to showcase our clothes and bring people into the shop, but opportunists steal them. It’s a catch 22. It’s a problem in town – groups can cause mayhem.”

Lee also spoke of the issue of smell, saying that the drugs in the area are now extremely obvious and off-putting due to the infamous smell once lit. “There’s a lot of weed – you can smell it,” he added. “People don’t even hide it through town, they’re walking up and down the street with it.”

Janet and David Dye, 67 and 71, are from Basildon, Essex, but frequently visit their son who lives in the town. They too have noticed a decline in the town’s reputation, and argue weed is the ‘main problem’. “If you are drinking a bottle of beer in the street, the police should stop you and tell you to tip it out – that’s supposed to be the law,” David said. “But a lot of the time they won’t, until someone complains that they’re drunk.”

The Mirror contacted Dorset Police back in April this year to ask what was being done to tackle anti-social behaviour in Weymouth. It pointed to its Safer Street Partnership, an initiative backed by several organisations including Dorset Council Community Safety Team, which tries to not only identify those causing disruption on the streets, but to help rehabilitate them.

“Over the last five years reported anti-social behaviour in the town centre has reduced by over 40 per cent,” stated Sam Goom, Inspector for Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Policing Team. “The Safer Street Partnership is an integral part of that success.

“Our collaborative effort to tackle street-based ASB has made a huge difference – our partners work extremely hard to find long-term solutions. They are a great bunch, and I am thankful for their continued commitment. There is always more to do but definite progress is being made.”

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