We think of pollution in terms of dirty air, water contamination and excessive noise, all of which can have a significant impact on us. However, light pollution is equally a problem and is already having a big impact on our health. It is also affecting local biodiversity, particularly birds and trees.

Here at Cranborne Chase, though, we are lucky to possess and cherish our dark night skies. Ours is a unique area of pristine night skies where fortunate residents and visitors can witness the majestic arc of the Milky Way on a clear night. This is one of the most treasured qualities of the AONB and we are campaigning to give our dark night skies the statutory protection they need to enable them to thrive and survive. If we achieve International Dark Sky Reserve status we will be the first AONB in the UK to earn this accolade.