RESIDENTS across Dorset have reported hearing loud, 'gun shot '-like sounds in the evenings.

These noises are due to night firing exercises at Lulworth Range.

 The exercises will occur on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, as well as occasionally on Saturdays.

The scheduled times for the night practices are from 8pm to 11.59pm on weekdays, with a session also planned for Saturday, September 14, during the same hours.

Weekend firing is programmed to take place six times per year and includes night firing on Saturdays.

A resident reported hearing "explosions" all the way from Wimborne, saying, "It's freaking my dog out and keeping me awake.

"Why so late?"

During this time, access to the public will be restricted, with no public access to the Lulworth Range Walks, Tyneham Church and School, or Tyneham Village Gates.

Road closures are expected to be in place, with Whiteways Road, from East Lulworth to Grange Hill, having limited access while firing takes place.