A RETIREMENT property developer has given its new development in Dorchester a name which reflects the town's literary links.

McCarthy and Stone have decided on Casterbridge Court after a competition invited locals to suggest names for the new properties on London Road. The five residents who nominated the name - Virginia Bennison, Sally Parker, David Foxwell, Mark Grant-Jones and Paul Webb - each received a £40 cheque for their efforts.

Virginia commented: "I chose Casterbridge because it is the name that Thomas Hardy called Dorchester in his novel, The Mayor of Casterbridge. Thomas Hardy is synonymous with Dorchester and I thought this name was really in-keeping with the town’s literary history."

The competition, launched in June, asked members of the public to submit name suggestions that were relevant to the local community, honouring landmarks or incorporating elements of the town's rich history.

Ciara Hilley, divisional marketing manager for McCarthy and Stone, said: "Congratulations to all the winners for naming our latest development in Dorchester. We received some fantastic suggestions from the local community, so we would like to thank everyone who entered, but there is no doubt Casterbridge Court was the overwhelming favourite."

Ciara added: "As well as increasing the provision of purpose-built, age-exclusive properties, it is also our responsibility to create a positive legacy in the communities in which we build, which is why we wanted to give locals the opportunity to put their stamp on our new development from the onset."

Set to welcome its first homeowners in spring 2021, the development will offer a collection of one and two bedroom privately-owned apartments for people aged 60 and over. Some of the apartments will have their own balconies and all residents will have access to a communal lounge and landscaped gardens.

The running of the development will be overseen by a house manager, and a 24/7 telephone service will be available.

Anyone interested in purchasing an apartment at Casterbridge Court are urged to register their interest now to receive updates and further information.