AN INNOVATIVE tourist attraction for Dorchester will be discussed at the next meeting of the town's Civic Society.

Work is continuing to progress on the Shire Hall Project, which will see the historic High West Street venue redeveloped into a major attraction that it is hoped will provide a boost to the town's tourism industry.

The talk on Tuesday, March 7 from 7.30pm at the Dorford Centre will see Anna Bright, director of the Shire Hall, give an update on the project and discuss its role in a historic quarter of Dorchester.

A spokesman for the Civic Society said: "As the Shire Hall project continues to build, Dorchester can look forward to a boost to its tourism offer.

"With Brewery Square attracting people to the town, the re-vamped Shire Hall will draw tourists to the north end of town connecting with the appeal of the Dorset County Museum."

The talk will discuss progress of the work, which is due to be completed in March next year, and what will happen following its completion.

The Civic Society spokesman added: "The history of the Shire Hall is deeply bound up in Dorchester's fame – or notoriety. "The Assizes saw misuse of power and the ill-judged use of the transporting to Australia of the Tolpuddle Martyrs.

"Trades unionism flowed from that and rural workers were eventually given a voice against powerful land-owners slashing wages.

"The project will display the stark reality of life in 'the good old days'."

The meeting is free to members with non-members also welcome and encouraged to donate £3 towards the costs.

Tea will be provided.

For more information about the meeting and the work of the Dorchester Civic Society in the town visit dorchestercivicsociety.org.uk