Step back in time this summer and experience Thomas Hardy's Casterbridge, when Dorchester remembers its Victorian past and celebrates the life and times of its most famous author.

The Thomas Hardy Victorian Fair will be held on Sunday, June 4, from 11am to 4pm, and will be a fun and inspiring day out for all the family. 

High East and High West Streets will be closed to traffic for a more authentic experience.

Visitors are encouraged to dress up for the occasion and join the 'Ragged Victorians' outside Shire Hall Museum to see penny farthing displays, Punch and Judy shows, steam engines, and all things Victorian, as well as enjoying live music, performances, and dancing in the street.

Dorchester's exuberant town crier Alistair Chisholm will announce the day's events as they happen, including the annual wreath-laying procession to Thomas Hardy's statue, accompanied by the sound of St Peter's Church bells.

Other family-friendly activities include storytelling and traditional craft displays in the Victorian Hall at Dorset Museum, with classical music sessions in the Corn Exchange.

The Nothe Fort Garrison will be at the Keep Military Museum and there will be talks and tours of the local Victorian architecture.

Thomas Hardy Victorian Fair chair, Cllr Gareth Jones, said "This fun, cultural event takes a light-hearted approach to Thomas Hardy, where the whole town can come together and take ownership of their famous resident. It's a great opportunity to look back and enjoy Dorchester's splendid Victorian heritage."

The event has been funded by headline sponsors, Kingston Maurward College, Sculptures by the Lake and Dorset Hideaways, Dorchester Town Council, Thomas Hardy Society and other local sponsors.

For more information and updates, visit the website www.thomashardyvictorianfair.co.uk or Facebook page www.facebook.com/TheThomasHardyVictorianFair