POOLE residents have the chance to name a multi-million pound retirement development, which is set for the Penn Hill and Branksome Park Conservation Area.

Construction is soon to start on the McCarthy and Stone retirement community, at Lindsay Road, which will eventually feature a collection of one and two bedroomed privately-owned apartments for people age 60 and over.

Ahead of the build programme getting under way, developers want local people to enter their ‘What’s in a Name’ competition, and to suggest a name for the new development.

The winning entrant will receive £200 and an invitation to the complex's official opening ceremony.

McCarthy and Stone Southern divisional marketing manager Ciara Hilley said: "We are inviting people from the local area to name our latest retirement living development in Poole.

"We are looking for a name which will be relevant to the local community. It can be anything from suggestions honouring local landmarks or scenery, to names incorporating elements of the town’s rich history.

"Simply submit your ideas by Monday, July 8, to be considered for the prize, and to put your stamp on a little bit of future history in the town.”

Apartments in the new retirement complex should be ready to purchase from early next year.

It will boast a shared lounge for socialising with new neighbours and landscaped gardens.

The development will also have a house manager to provide any help or support

A McCarthy and Stone spokesman said: "To be in with a chance of naming the new development and to win £200, all you have to do is email mccarthyandstone@mccann.com with your suggested development name and the reason behind it.

"Include ‘Poole’ in the subject header, and your name and contact details in the email.

"The competition is open to people of all ages from the local and surrounding areas and the deadline for entries is July 8."