AN exciting 'Window Wanderland' project is being launched in Dorchester in a bid to bring a touch of sparkle to the town.

Residents are being invited to create window displays on the theme of 'A Brighter Future' to create a wonderful winter walking trail, which everyone can enjoy safely during their daily exercise in lockdown.

The community not-for-profit event is being held during evenings from 6pm - 9pm over the weekend of February 19 - 21 and is billed as a covid-safe way to connect people, transforming streets into magical outdoor galleries.

It is being organised by local volunteers, Kathy O’Borne and Charlotte Dingle, with support from Dorchester Town Council and Crickmay Stark Architects.

Kathy O’Borne said: "“The great thing about Window Wanderland is that everyone can take part. You can interpret the theme however you want, so long as it’s family friendly.

"You could use tissue paper, fairy lights, household objects or anything else that’s handy – this is for everyone, not just arty types. You can even use the event to brighten up your shop windows. The more people taking part, the better, so spread the word and get your whole street involved. We are really excited to see what Dorchester comes up with.”

The Window Wanderland project has brought colour to the streets of towns across the UK after it was first dreamt up by Bristol resident Lucy Reeves in 2015.

The idea behind the scheme is to ward of feelings of loneliness as although we live closer than ever, we are becoming more isolated, with more than 7.5 million people now living alone in the UK.

Events have also been held on Portland and in Weymouth.

Lucy Reeves said: “Everyone has a playful side to them they just need an opportunity to show it. I wanted to make an event that everyone can participate in and do something different. This brightens up the long winter nights and is a proper community event - some roads had almost every house participating."

To get involved and register your home or business as part of the Dorchester Window Wanderland trail visit www.windowwanderland.com/event/dorchester-2021

You can also view the trail on the above website to find a list of all the places near you that are participating.