A special service will be held today to remember the thousands of Australian and New Zealand volunteer servicemen who passed through Dorset during the First World War.

Today, Wednesday, April 25, is Anzac Day and there will be a remembrance and short wreath laying in recognition of their service at the memorial on Weymouth Esplanade.

The Civic Service at the memorial opposite the Hotel Prince Regent takes place from 11am and all are welcome to attend.

Wreaths will be laid by the Mayor and representatives of Australia House and New Zealand House from London, ex-service organisations and expatriates living or working in Weymouth.

The Esplanade will be closed southbound between Lennox Street and Astrid Way except for those taking part in the event and emergency vehicles between 10:40am and 11:30am. 

A lsigned diversion route will operate via Lennox Street, Victoria Street and Astrid Way. Traffic management officers will be stationed at either end of the closure to facilitate local public buses on service through the closure, and access to Brunswick Terrace.