Some of Dorset's Tourist Information Centres (TIC) are reopening this week after closing due to the coronavirus, but Bridport TIC was the first in the county to open more than two months ago.

Like many other businesses and services, the TIC had to close its doors, but TIC team members continued to work from home and diversified to help with the Bridport Coronavirus Helpline and assisted in helping more than 1,500 people, whilst still maintaining a TIC service both online and by telephone.

Bridport TIC reopened to the public initially part time in early July, increasing back to full time in August. Adhering to government guidelines and ensuring a safe environment for both staff and customers, the TIC secured the 'We're Good to Go' status and joined the Respect, Protect and Enjoy Dorset campaign, which provides information to keep visitors and residents safe.

The TIC provides a service for both residents and visitors alike and has seen a positive number of customers visiting the office.

Terri Foxwell of Bridport TIC said: "There has been a definite increase in our customers enjoying a UK 'staycation' in Bridport and surrounding areas when they would normally have holidayed abroad.

"We have seen a significant increase in the sales of walking boots and maps as more and more people are enjoying exploring the outdoors."

The TIC also manages the town and community website – bridportandwestbay.co.uk – and work has been continuing on this to expand the content to fit the current trends, including play areas, green spaces and responsible tourism, and virtual events.

The TIC manager has also been at the forefront of the wider efforts to get the town centre up and running again, assisting in the reopening of the street market and relocating the farmers' market, art and craft fairs and the vegan market to a new location in The lyric Theatre and Barrack Street and enabling two small community music events.

Terri added: "Working with Kathy Dare from Kayenne Marketing we have produced a free interim tow guide – Bridport and West Bay Back in Business – helping to promote the town and harbourside and support our fantastic local businesses.

"The TIC has also increased its social media presence significantly to connect with their customers and increase awareness of Bridport and West Bay."

Due to the current economic climate, the TIC future plans will be to promote, support and to boost the town and its tourism trade. Working with Watershed PR, the TIC created a short town video initially to build trust and encourage shoppers back to our market and high street. This will continue to be expanded to a full promotional video to attract visitors whilst also encouraging them to act safely and respectfully.

Bridport TIC services include:

• The box office for the Electric Palace, Bridport Arts Centre, The Lyric Theatre, Bridport Literary Festival, Bridport Folk Festival, Bridport Green Fortnight and Mindfest.

• Provision of free information on accommodation, attractions, events, walking, transport, sightseeing and much more.

• Transport information and bookings for day trips, holidays and National Express coaches.

• Local transport services.

• Accommodation booking service.

• Services for local residents – parking permits, disabled parking information, trade waste.

• Ticket sales – events, attractions, transport.

• Events information and distribution of monthly 'what's on' listing.

• Oversee public access to Bridport Town Hall.

• Online customer information.

• Local merchandise.

• Community corner – new residents' information – local groups, activities and classes.

• Advice on sustainability and responsible tourism.

• Free water bottle refills.

• Litter Picking equipment.