A FAMILY-RUN campsite near Dorchester said it is looking to extend its season after seeing an increase in demand from people looking to 'staycation' in the UK amid Covid.

The Dewflock Farm site at Winterborne Monkton is asking Dorset Council to approve its continued opening from July 1 until September 6 each year on a site of just under a hectare which runs parallel with the Dorchester-Weymouth rail line.

The farm’s glamping site which offers visitors the chance to stay in a bell tent or shepherd’s hut was usually just open for 28 days from August 1.

However, because of the pandemic the Government extended the period for up to 56 days over the last two years.

Tom Bamlet, who runs the farm, said that 56-day period which he has been able to run the campsite for the last two years could be taken away so applied to extend the period again.

He said ability to open longer over the site to visitors over the summer makes a ‘huge difference’.

He said: “The state of British agriculture means that every farm has to diversify as much as it can. It’s an extra income stream.

“Lots of people have been looking to go to the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of living in their town or city and they can see how the farm works and experience a more relaxing atmosphere.”

Weddings had also been offered but that business has now ceased with the farm now concentrating on camping, using up to 20 bell tents and, more recently, also allowing campers to bring their own tents.

The application for the July-September permanent use says that the site, although in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is well hidden with no immediate neighbours.

Public comments on the application, Dorset Council reference 2021/05132, remains open until January 3.