BRIDPORT is becoming a role model for other Dorset towns.

Mayors of other towns have asked for advice about setting up their own skill centres and community justice panels.

It follows a recent Civic Day in Bridport when visiting dignitaries saw for themselves what the town has achieved.

The scale and scope of the town hall restoration and the extensive collaboration of youngsters and local craftsmen on the arts and heritage aspects was much admired, said Bridport Mayor Dave Rickard.

He took the visitors on a tour of the Bridport Local Area Skills and Training (BLAST) facility at the North Mills industrial estate.

The civic day finished with a presentation on Community Justice Panels with the involvement of councillors in a community project much admired, with many requesting presentations to their own councils. Coun Rickard said: “The response from the other mayors after their visit is an endorsement of our pioneering work, collaboration between elected representatives and the community and a lot of hard work and dedication.

“I am very proud to be mayor of such a pioneering town.”