THE lockdown need not be a barrier to enjoying Dorset’s beauty spots, thanks to a virtual reality app that brings users some of the county’s best views.

The app features 360-degree videos and panoramic pictures of Baiter Park, Bournemouth Pier, historic Poole Town, Sandbanks and 12 other sites.

Users can tilt and pan their phone or tablets to take in all the sights and sounds as the app “walks” them through the area.

The free app, Our 360, was launched by the Poole-based digital marketing agency b4b Marketing.

Alistair Paton, the company’s technical director, had the idea for the app. “During their exercise time, our team went out with the latest in 360 video technology to film in their local areas,” he said.

“We are now inviting local photographers to send us their own views to add and make it a community-driven project, for everyone to enjoy from home. Perfect whilst people are unable to travel to their favourite destinations.”

The 360-views can be further enhanced by using VR headset technology to give an even more immersive experience.

Mr Paton added: “Isolation can have a big impact on people’s mental health. With Our 360, we wanted to allow people to escape to familiar views that they love, helping to lift their mood and spark memories that make them smile.”

Other locations in the app include yellow fields at Shillingstone, Bournemouth Gardens and Holmwood Park, Ferndown.

Photographers will be able to showcase their work and link out to their portfolio to help them promote their skills to potential clients and win new work.

Interested photographers should email apps@b4b.co.uk

The app is available to download for free on Apple and Android devices.

It can be found in Apple’s App Store at https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/our-360/id1507955328

In Google’s Play store, it is at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bespoke4business.our360

Founded in 2008, b4b provides businesses with brand strategy, website design and build, digital marketing and software development.

Its clients include such well-known Dorset and Hampshire names as Charles Trent, Trethowans, W&S Recycling, Carpet Barn & the Bed Store, Broadview, Cobham and Morrish Homes.