It is significant that Christchurch Council has this month held the installation of its mayor John Lofts at Highcliffe Castle.
This is the first time this has taken place away from Christchurch town centre.
This event marks a recognition of the castle’s importance and value since for a long time its future was uncertain.
The  borough, which embraces Highcliffe, had the foresight to invest in the castle and its heritage in the teeth of great opposition. It has paid off and become part of the community again.
This year at the castle there is an exhibition called  Wish You Were Here: Looking back on Highcliffe holidays.
