Spirit of the South: Celebrating Christchurch Harbour

  • Meridian

Christchurch in Dorset is home to one of the largest natural harbours on the south coast and is full of history and interesting wildlife.

So it's no surprise we chose the location as our latest Spirit of the South episode, celebrating where we live.

The area is home to 3 sailing clubs and has more than 1,400 small boat moorings in the harbour and rivers.

It's an area that's also very popular with sailors and tourists, boasting one of the safest places to sail and some of the best beaches to visit.

  • Our reporter Richard speaks to town's Sailing Club Commodore, Jim Atkins, about the area they both call home

Christchurch Harbour is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and incredibly popular with sailors

Spreading over 870 acres, the land has been designated for its biological and geological interest. Its varied habitats include: saltmarsh, wet meadows, grassland, heath, sand dune, woodland and scrub.

  • Richard talks to conservation manager Stuart Clarke

Christchurch Harbour was formed about 7,000 years ago

  • Watch Richard Slee's report below