Kim Parker, 52, a beautician of Hungerfield Close in Bransgore, said: “It think it’s a nice little community. You have got everything and some good shops. I love the harbour.”

Pauline Vaughan, 71, retired, of Fernhill Lane in New Milton, said: “ The quay is fabulous. We love how old it is too. Parking is brilliant and we like the market. It’s a nice coastal town.”

Peter Vaughan, 73, also retired and of Fernhill Lane, said: “There are a lot of people our age. I like the proximity to the Forest and the beach. I like the general ambience of the place too.

June Hodgins, 75, retired and of Belle Vue Crescent in Southbourne, said: “I think it’s a lovely place. It’s got handy accommodation and is generally quite laid back.”

Darshan Singh, 40, owner of JRJ phones from Southampton, said: “It’s a nice place with good people. It’s got a nice community feel down at the market especially.”

Selina Gurd, 31, a support worker from Sorrell Court, Highcliffe, said she likes catching up over a slice of cake. “I like walking down to the quay,” she said. “I love it down there.”

Rebecca Rankine, 32, a hairdresser from Rowan Drive in Highcliffe, said: “I use the children’s centre a lot which is really good. We love Christchurch. We’re lucky it’s so close.”

Kate Davis, 87, retired and from Purewell, said: “I love the people and my church, God First, is in the Regent Centre. I like the Priory and siting with some fish and chips in the gardens.”

Jamie Fox, eight, a Priory School student of Somerford Road in Somerford, said: “I like the boats. I like the water park and I like the castle and climbing there with my cousin.”