Dorset weekly round-up: 2 October - 8 October 2023

Paul Miller wrapped up his final programme shortly before 01:00

Paul Miller hosting his final show for the BBC after 34 years was among our most read stories this week in Dorset.

A variety of local issues featured on the BBC News website, BBC Radio Solent and South Today.

We have picked five stories to keep you up to date.

Large bronze horse disappears from estate

Police are investigating reports that a large blue Transit-style van was sighted close to the estate

A large bronze statue of a rearing horse has been stolen from the grounds of a historic estate.

Dorset Police said the ornament was taken from the gardens of Forde Abbey.

It is investigating reports that a blue Transit-style van was sighted close to the estate and in the village of Thorncombe at the time.

'Predatory' police officer jailed for rape

PC Ravi Canhye behaved "like an animal" towards his victim, the court was told

A "predatory" Dorset Police officer who raped one woman and sexually assaulted another has been jailed for 16-and-a-half years.

PC Ravi Canhye was convicted of two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, three counts of assault by penetration, and sexual assault.

A judge at Winchester Crown Court told him he was "selfish and uncaring" and had abused his position of trust.

BBC radio presenter says goodbye to listeners

Paul Miller said he joined the BBC for two weeks and ended up staying 34 years

Much-loved local radio presenter Paul Miller hosted his final show for the BBC after 34 years with the broadcaster.

His late-night phone-in show has been a feature of local radio in the south of England since 2000.

At the end of the programme, he signed off with his trademark "bysie-bye".

Council pulls plug on Christmas lights funding

The council said ending funding of Christmas street lighting would save more than £50,000

Christmas lights displays in parts of Bournemouth and Christchurch will no longer receive council funding.

Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said ending its contribution to festive street lighting would save £50,000.

The Christmas Tree Wonderland and Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail events will still go ahead.

Daughter visits steam train saved by father

Flying Scotsman also visited Swanage in 2019

The daughter of the man who saved Flying Scotsman from being scrapped is travelling to England to ride behind the famous steam locomotive.

Alan Pegler bought the redundant locomotive from British Railways in 1963 for £3,000.

Penny Pegler will travel from her home in Portugal to see the locomotive when it visits Swanage Railway in Dorset later this month.