DORSET and the south west region has been awarded £33 million as part of the government's new 'Stronger Towns' post Brexit initiative.

The government says the money will be directed towards places which, it says, 'have not shared in the proceeds of growth in the same way as more prosperous parts of the country'.

Communities Secretary James Brokenshire said: "It will be used to create new jobs, help train local people and boost economic activity – with communities having a say on how the money is spent.

"The fund is part of the government’s commitment to build a more prosperous economy that works for everyone."

However the initiative has been criticised as 'a bribe' to get Brexit supporting MPs in Leave constituencies to back the Prime Minister's deal to leave the European Union on March 29.

Councils will be invited to bid for the cash from today.