THE streets where Thomas Hardy once strolled were packed with passionate fans at a conference in his honour.

Dorchester town centre bustled with events as part of the Thomas Hardy Society organised extravaganza.

At an afternoon tea at Goulds Cafe in Trinity Street, people queued up to speak to 104-year-old Norrie Woodhall.

Norrie, who was signing her books, is believed to be one of the last people alive who knew Hardy.

Restaurant manager Peggy Walder said: "The whole place is bustling and all 35 tables were fully booked. "Everyone had a really good time and some people even queued up to read Norrie their own poetry to get her approval."

As well as trips around Dorset, lectures from experts and poetry competitions, the conference has offered tourists and Hardy enthusiasts the chance to visit Hardy's favourite places.

Tonight, a silent auction will take place at the Corn Exchange at the end of the conference dinner.

The Hardy auction features three oil paintings of Hardy by artist Mike Bowman, which carry a reserve price of £1,000.

An original Corn Exchange theatre programme donated by Norrie Woodhall will also go under the hammer.

For a full list of items or to place a sealed bid contact the Hardy Society on 251501 or email info@hardysociety.org