The future of tourism in Dorchester has never looked brighter – according to the newly formed Dorchester Tourism Partnership.

The group, supported by the town council, has come together to grow the tourism offer in the town.

It will take the lead in delivering the county town's Heritage Tourism Strategy, agreed by the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee.

The group is made up from over 25 accommodation providers, local businesses, arts organisations and tour guides, business groups and local heritage organisations.

Museum director Dr Jon Murden has been confirmed as the group's first chairman: "This is a wonderful opportunity for Dorchester and I thank the Town Council for supporting this exciting new initiative.

"Dorchester has a wealth of stories about the place and its people covering more than 6,000 years, to attract, inform and entertain visitors to our wonderful town.

"Visitors love to hear about the past and we now have the opportunity to tell and share those stories with everyone who comes to our town".

James Brooke Web from Say Original, owners of the Kings Arms added: "We are delighted to be part of this new initiative, the prospects for tourism in Dorchester look really bright as we come out of lockdown with the imminent re-opening of the new museum, and the summer long activity programme at the Roman Town House to name but a few of Dorchester's fabulous heritage attractions."