Dorchester's Dorset Museum is one of four museums appealing to bring many never before seen Thomas Hardy objects on display.

The museum, along with Poole Museum, The Salisbury Museum and Wiltshire Museum, have launched a Crowdfunder appeal to conserve the objects, which will form part of a blockbuster hardy exhibition that takes place across the Wessex Museums partnership in summer 2022.

Harriett Still, exhibition curator, said: "Hardy found his inspiration in the landscapes and people of Wessex, but he was also passionate about issues such as women's equality, animal welfare and the unfairness of the English class system.

"As part of the project, I was tasked with exploring the museum stores and finding objects that gave insights into Hardy's complex personality. It was a magical voyage of discovery and it will be wonderful to share this fascinating treasure trove with our visitors."

One of the patrons is Lord Fellowes of West Stafford, president of the Thomas Hardy Society. He said: "I wholeheartedly support this project to conserve and display some fascinating objects from the Thomas Hardy collection - many of which have remained unseen in museum stores for years.

"These personal items will help people come to know Hardy as a man, not just as a writer. His grandmother's kettle, for example, evokes an image of a young boy sitting by the fireside, listening to the wise old woman's stories, while the tombstone Hardy designed in later life for his beloved dog, Wessex, tells of his deep love for animals.

"By donating to this appeal, people can help unlock the stories of the man who loved Wessex and so beautifully captured its landscapes and people in his writing."

Wessex Museums is hoping the appeal will raise £5,000 towards the specialist work needed to put on this exhibition. The Crowdfunder runs until December 3 and can be found here.

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