AN organisation started to 'better community living' in Highcliffe has now officially dissolved.

Highcliffe Action Team (HAT) is no more, after members said they successfully achieved the goals set in HAT’s five-year business plan.

This plan, spearheaded by Mandy Polkey and Jane Dean, began five years ago initially with funding from Christchurch and East Dorset Council.

The aim was to support businesses in the area, increase footfall and firmly place Highcliffe on the tourism map.

HAT’s chair Mandy Polkey said: “Our journey with HAT has been a labour of love, driven by our commitment to making Highcliffe a thriving community for both residents and visitors alike.

“It has been a joy to work alongside Jane Dean and our wonderful volunteers over the last few years.

"Their dedication has made all of this possible and I am deeply grateful for their efforts, support and friendship.

"Thank you to every volunteer, business and resident who supported us along the way. This success belongs to all of us.”

HAT said it intends for Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council to take over festivities and continue lighting Highcliffe’s high street for Christmas. 

Its dedicated group of volunteers will now lend their support to the Cliff Top Music Festival which will continue under the leadership of Stir Events CIC.

HAT’s communication officer Jane Dean said: “I’d like to also acknowledge the hard work and commitment shown by Mandy Polkey during the past five years.

"We have worked together and shared much frustration, laughter and even a few tears of pride over some of our achievements.

"I personally believe that our lasting legacy pertains to Highcliffe’s Coronation Clock which now takes pride of place along Lymington Road. When the former G&T’s retail outlet was sold to a developer, it appeared that the clock had been overlooked.

"The clock was originally presented to the village back in 1911 to mark George V’s coronation but had been replaced with a more modern version over the years.

"With local support and fundraising, HAT stepped in and managed to raise enough funds to create a bespoke freestanding vintage clock tower, which has a plaque beneath acknowledging those involved.”