VERWOOD'S War Memorial has been moved as part of the development of the town centre.

With the blessing of the Royal British Legion, the town's memorial was moved in a military-style operation from the recreation ground by the Memorial Hall, across the road to the newly-created Town Green.

A crane was brought in to lift the stone monument across Ringwood Road to its new home near the Potters Wheel development.

The road was partially closed to traffic while the lifting was carried out.

Town mayor Roy Slade said: "A cradle structure was built around the war memorial before it was lifted by the crane.

"It was quite a sight as it was lifted over the road. I watched it with the chairman of the Royal British Legion and the whole thing went very smoothly.

The Town Green has been created out of the former Triangle car park which was made redundant last year when a new high-security car park was opened in the town.

The new green, which will feature seating, landscaping and nearby toilets, is due to be officially opened shortly.