MEMBERS of the Society of Dorset Men paid tribute to their founders in Dorchester.

They gathered in the Dorchester cemetery to honour William Watkins and Sir Frederick Treves.

Mr Watkins founded the society in 1904 and Sir Frederick became its first president.

The Rev John Travell conducted a short service at the graves, next to one another in the Weymouth Avenue cemetery, on the anniversary of Mr Watkins’ death.

Society spokesman Michel Hooper-Immins said: “We thank the Rev John Travell for organising this at short notice.

“Many of us would like this to be an annual gathering at the graves.

“It is important to remember these good people of Dorset, who did so much for our society and for Dorset, so many years ago.”

Society secretary Hayne Russell and society member Trevor Vacher-Dean laid wreaths on the graves.

Society chaplain the Rev Travell said a prayer he had written especially for the occasion.

The Rev Travell also outlined the history of Mr Watkins and Sir Frederick.

He said: “William Watkins had died on this day and his burial here was attended by Mr and Mrs Thomas Hardy.

“The society’s flag, which had been used to drape the coffin of Sir Frederick Treves the year before, was used again to cover William Watkins’ coffin.

“On this 85th anniversary of his death, we honour both these men as the founders of our society and for their service to our county.”