BOURNEMOUTH took a step closer to becoming a 'world class destination' over the bank holiday weekend as thousands flocked to the town. 

Residents and holiday-makers alike made the most of what Bournemouth and the surrounding Poole, Christchurch and Purbeck had to offer. Beaches were packed with families looking for a mini-break before a short working week and the start of the half-term holidays.

Cllr Lawrence Williams, Bournemouth council's cabinet portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and art, said: "The town is ready for all the visitors. The last of the fencing on Pier Approach came down on Friday and the new Tourist Information Centre is being fitted out this weekend.

"The weather has been kind to us and the weather report has been accurate. We are also getting ready to welcome visitors to the Bournemouth Wheels Festival this weekend.

"It's great to have the completion of the works at Pier Approach as the latest step in working towards Bournemouth becoming a world-class destination."

See pictures of how the work has progressed over the past few months 

ITV's Good Morning Britain show also focused on the golden sands as the weather presenter, Laura Tobin, had a ride on the Rock Reef Pier Zip line, before presenting the forecast for the week ahead.

She also tweeted to say: "A busy Bournemouth beach. So nice to see so many families enjoying a great British tradition #fishandchips #icecream."

Dan Whitworth, who presents BBC Radio 4's Today programme, also headed to the beach to present a report on the influx of barrel jellyfish which have been found washed up along the Dorset coastline.