BRIDPORT News readers are being asked to come up with a name for West Bay's new pier.

As part of the ongoing multi-million pound coastal defence and harbour improvements scheme, the 240-metre long pier is fast taking shape and will eventually have seating areas along its entire length, offering views from Portland Bill to Brixham.

West Dorset District Council's engineering manager Keith Cole said: "All the different aspects of the scheme are coming together for the scheduled completion in December. We've now reached the point where a name is needed for the new pier as it will be used as part of the harbour operations.

"The West Pier is being demolished back to a stub to be used for temporary mooring and all ideas for naming the new pier are welcome." Suggestions can be placed in a collection box at the Salt House information centre at West Bay from today or emailed to engineers@westdorset-dc.gov.uk

Local representatives will be asked to compile a short list from the suggestions. The district council's environment committee will then be asked to select one of these names. District council leader Robert Gould said: "The harbour is such an important part of Bridport and West Bay's history, I feel it is really important that everyone has the opportunity to be involved in suggesting a name for something which will be an important local landmark.

"So many people have helped us by giving their views when the scheme was being drawn up and I hope that they can make the time to give their ideas."

The deadline for suggestions is October 30. The Salt House opening hours are 9.30am to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays, and 9.30am to 4.30pm on Saturdays.