WEYMOUTH and Portland are magical places - and more people should be saying so! That's the message from two creative residents who have joined forces to create a promotional music video celebrating the area's unique charms and features.

Martin Harvey, of Harvey M photography, has partnered with local musician John West Weymouth for the initiative, which is hoped will provide a boost to local businesses during uncertain times amid the Covid pandemic.

The pair are receiving support for their promotional campaign from South Dorset MP Richard Drax.

“It’s important to make people aware that there is so much more to Weymouth than donkeys and deck chairs, although of course they are essential for a top seaside resort,” said Martin.

More than 15,000 people have already listened to John's song, It’s Such a Magical Place, on streaming channel Spotify, and it is now being used as the backdrop for the video - featuring stunning photographs and drone shots - promoting the area.

Dorset Echo: It's Such a Magical Place Picture: Harvey M Photography

Martin said: “The beauty of having a purpose written soundtrack is that it’s suitable for adding all sorts of video and photography to help promote our area and local businesses."

Now that the concept has proved successful Martin believes the idea can be replicated to allow local businesses and tourist organisations the ability to produce additional stand-alone or combined promotional videos economically using John’s unique song about Weymouth as the perfect background soundtrack.

For John’s part, he is more than happy to waive any royalties or performance rights which will allow Martin to develop opportunities with local businesses to help promote the region.

“I’m just happy to help our community in any way I can," said John.

Mr Drax said: “I can’t think of a better name for a song about Weymouth and Portland than, “It’s Such a Magical Place”.

"It is, and more people should be saying so! There is much to sell here and much for people to savour and I fully support this magnificent initiative to promote and support local businesses.”

Martin can be reached on www.facebook.com/harveymphotography and more information about John can be found on his website www.johnwestweymouth.com