DORCHESTER'S much-loved town crier put his hearing to the test to mark the launch of a new hearing centre in the town.

Alistair Chisholm officially opened the new Amplifon branch and took part in a short hearing test designed to act as a first indicator of hearing loss.

Alistair, who was given a clean bill of health by Rebecca Cleaver, audiologist at the branch, said: “I was surprised at just how easy it was to take the hearing test.

"Most of us wouldn’t think twice about getting our eyes tested and we really need to look after our ears in the same way.”

Amplifon, which helps customers in more than 20 countries and has 8,600 hearing centres worldwide, has relocated to South Street in the town centre.

Rebecca said: “We were delighted the town crier was able to join us for the opening and to take part in the hearing test.

“People often delay getting their hearing checked for up to 10 years after first noticing a problem, so we hope the residents of Dorchester will follow Alistair’s example and get their hearing tested regularly.

“A full hearing test appointment takes around 80 minutes and assesses your ability to detect sounds at a number of different frequencies. Just like a sight test, it’s a simple process that can pinpoint any problems and help you address them.”

Speaking of the move to South Street, Rebecca added: “Our new location means we’re right in the heart of Dorchester so it’s much easier for customers to drop in and see us.

“We look forward to welcoming the people of Dorchester to the branch for a free hearing assessment and helping them to rediscover the joy of good hearing.”