A PURBECK holiday park has reopened with a range of new Covid-safe measures in place.

Sandford Holiday Park, Holton Heath, near Wareham, is one of three parks operated by Parkdean Resorts in Dorset.

Its others, which have also reopened, are at Warmwell, near Weymouth and at West Bay.

Parkdean Resorts chief executive Steve Richards said: "We are ready and waiting to warmly welcome holidaymakers who want to enjoy a well-deserved break whilst seeking fresh air, open spaces and safe, beautiful locations.

"Our team has worked hard to ensure that whilst social distancing and health and safety measures are adhered to, our holidaymakers’ experience will be the best yet.”

The resort operator also says returning holiday trade will provide a much-needed boost for local economies, including local suppliers, shops, pubs and restaurants.

New measures now in place at Sandford Holiday Park include the enforcement of a social distancing policy onsite, drive-thru check-ins, one-way systems and new social distancing signage.

The resorts says each caravan is deep cleaned between every new customer visit and that hand sanitiser is available throughout the park.

Some facilities have been limited to adhere to the Government's one-metre social distancing requirements.

A Parkdean spokesman said: "The reopening of holiday parks will be a major boost for the local economy, which relies heavily on tourism, with 450 jobs at Parkdean’s parks in the region now secured, and additional new roles created around the country.

"In preparation for what the group anticipates will be one of its busiest summers ever, Parkdean Resorts has recruited an additional 1,500 team members spread across the careers’ spectrum, including accommodation, food and beverage, and security.

"The new recruits take the group’s total number of employees across the UK to just under 8,000 – a record for the company.

"Parkdean Resorts takes its local community to heart and gave generously throughout the lockdown to local food banks. The company also provided accommodation to NHS workers across the UK in a number of its parks."