The controversy concerning the overnight parking of camper vans in Station Road car park has reached a new level.

A week last Saturday, following the posting of photographs of parked vehicles on Facebook, a range of different views were expressed, mainly in support of positive action being taken by West Dorset District Council or others.

This matter was raised at a meeting of the West Bay Community Forum and a debate took place over possible solutions.

Among other issues discussed were the state of the Bridport Arms car park following the recent re-surfacing work and the fact that the gravel was not up to the required level. Two different approaches to the council now appear to have resolved this situation.

Marsh Barn Road is now a 'clearway' along its entire length, and the mandatory signs at the beginning and end of the road should suffice to advise motorists accordingly. Any flouting of the regulations will undoubtedly incur a fixed penalty notice. So be warned.

The meeting was attended by Will Austin, the recently-appointed town clerk. He informed the meeting of several matters of interest to the forum and the wider community. Firstly, the possible takeover of maintenance of the toilets will be discussed at the Dorset Shadow Unitary Council's meeting on September 17. Secondly, the town council will discuss the future of the West Bay Road car boot sales at a meeting today (Wednesday, September 12), to which everyone is invited. If you wish to speak for up to three minutes at that meeting you are to let Will know at enquiries@bridport-tc.gov.uk or by phone on 01308 456722.

A planning application has been received regarding proposed changes to the external features of the Riverside Restaurant. These involve a change to the configuration of the windows and external cladding. Please check the application on www.dorsetforyou.co.uk.

The state of the temporary crossing for pedestrians outside St John's Church was mentioned by one member. This sparked a discussion about when there could be a permanent solution to the crossing issue, but please don't hold your breath it has already been more than two years since this subject was first raised.

Last Saturday the annual 'Ride and Stride' on behalf of Dorset Historic Churches took place. They did a sterling job raising money for all our local churches.