An historic room where Thomas Hardy was said to have written The Mayor of Casterbridge in has been renovated and reopened in the heart of Dorchester.

Guests from Dorchester businesses and societies gathered to celebrate the reopening of the Casterbridge room at The King's Arms, enjoying food from head chef Steve Yates and a special cocktail.

Dorchester mayor, councillor Gareth Jones, read an extract from The Mayor of Casterbridge, which describes the magnificence and excitement of a mayoral banquet in the room.

The room is still recognisable as the one Hardy described in his novel, with painted panels, bespoke lighting, leather sofas and bow window, and the space can seat up to 60 guests.

The Kings Arms has played host to many famous guests from Queen Victoria to The Rolling Stones since it was built in 1720. But is most famed as the central location for the action in Hardy's The Mayor Casterbridge. Michael Henchard, the eponymous mayor of the novel, carries out most of his official business at the hotel and finally faces his debtors and creditors at the bankruptcy meeting there.

In September this year, The King's Arms celebrated its first birthday under the ownership of boutique hotel and pub group, the Stay Original Company. After years of decline, a multi-million-pound investment rejuvenated the landmark with guest rooms, restaurant, terrace and more to come.

Rob Greacen, managing director of the Stay Original Company, said: "The Casterbridge room is a very special place. It's easy to see why Thomas Hardy liked it so much.

"We're delighted with the refurbishment. It's another step in the revival of Dorchester's high street and in welcoming the community and visitors back to the town's historic centre.

"When we reopened The King's Arms a year ago, we quickly established ourselves as a great place for people in Dorchester to meet for work or to get together with friends. Now with the Casterbridge room completed, we're looking forward to welcoming businesses and societies on a larger scale for private events."

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