A network of digital poster screens has gone live across Bournemouth after a year of planning.

The first 12 are at high footfall locations across Old Christchurch Road and Commercial Road.

A further four sites are due to launch in the New Year.

The high-definition, high impact 6-sheet screens measure two metres high and one metre wide.

The company behind the screens, Alight Media, say they will be seen by an estimated 400,000 people during a two-week campaign.

Initial bookings have come from a number of local businesses and organisations including Coastal Comedy, Aria Resorts and Bournemouth Town Centre BID with its Christmas Gift Card.

Matthew Dearden, Alight Media’s Chief Executive Officer, pictured left, said: “As a media industry that’s constantly growing, we wanted to provide a complete digital billboard service for Bournemouth.

“The digital 6-sheet screens are hi tech and very visual as shoppers are travelling through Bournemouth town centre, enjoying a shopping or leisure visit, often with family – a crucial time that purchasing decisions are made.

“They provide a fantastic way to raise brand awareness, drive sales and are proven to give the most bang for your buck out of all advertising media.”

According to Alight Media, Bournemouth was chosen for the launch because it is a thriving student town which also attracts a UK tourist audience.

It also has a prominent business and digital hub with a large number of advertising and media agencies.

Meanwhile Bournemouth’s Christmas attractions, including the Christmas Tree Wonderland,  are expected to attract 800,000 people this year.

Mr Dearden is a former President, Europe, of Clear Channel Outdoor.

Previous roles have included Chief Executive, Clear Channel UK, and Marketing Director for BT’s consumer business.

Alight Media was co-founded by Mr Dearden and Dave Huckerby, formerly Clear Channel UK’s Development Director, last year.

It also has screens in Devon and Cornwall which went live in September.

Screens in other parts of the country are due to launch by Christmas.

Previously, digital screens have only been found in big cities such as London and Manchester.