This Sunday is a very special day for everyone – Census 2021 Day – and it will be marked poignantly in Poole and Bournemouth.

The Twin Sails Bridge is to be lit in purple this weekend, joining hundreds of buildings and landmarks throughout England and Wales to celebrate the census and its importance to communities.

Bournemouth Pier will have rolling text displayed across its building.

The survey, which takes place every 10 years, gives a picture of all the people and households in England and Wales. Census 2021 will give the ONS fresh information to increase its long-term understanding of the impact of the pandemic, and make sure that the services people use meet the needs of our changing society.

Other iconic landmarks taking part in the celebration include the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff, BT Tower and Brixton Town Hall in London, and Blackpool Tower, which will see them light up in the Census 2021 brand colour from Friday 19 March through to 21 March.

Pete Benton, director of census operations, Office for National Statistics, commented, “The census is such an important undertaking that helps inform the vital services we all rely on every single day within our communities.

“We wanted to shine a (purple) light on the buildings and landmarks that matter most to their local areas, highlighting the importance of the census in helping shape the communities we live in.

“We’re thrilled with all the support we have received so far and would like to thank the many buildings and landmarks for their participation. Now is the time for everyone to complete their census and be part of history.”