Eight thousand people have now responded to the consultation about reorganising local government in Dorset with just two weeks to go.

According to a recent update more than 5,000 people have responded to the open survey while nearly 3,000 household surveys have been returned.

Twenty thousand household surveys were handed out.

About 7,400 postcards have also been handed out at 28 roadshows across the county.

Andrew Flockhart, chief executive at Borough of Poole, said: "More than 8,000 people have now either completed the open online questionnaire at reshapingyourcouncils.uk or responded to the household survey.

The consultation closes at the end of the month so there's still plenty of time for local people to have their say on the proposals.

"Most people are responding via the online questionnaire but if you don’t have direct access to the internet, paper copies are readily available at local libraries across Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole.

We want residents of all ages to get involved with the consultation and are particularly keen to hear what younger people have to say as the proposals will potentially shape how councils deliver services for years to come."

In September the councils were critcised after it was revealed less than half of one per cent of Dorset’s population had taken part.

The councils are also unable to say how many of the online respondents complete the consultation and how many leave after one or two questions.

To have your say, visit reshapingyourcouncils.uk. The consultation closes on Tuesday, October 25.