WITH the approach of summer, the New Hardy Players have released their latest programme.

So adept now at bringing Thomas Hardy, his works and times to life, their first offering of the season was Tea With Mr Hardy, with their first guest was Dr Marie Stopes.

This year sees the 100th anniversary of women winning the vote and the success of the suffragette movement.

Marie Stopes, whose own mother was a suffragist, was a strong woman and a relentless campaigner for the rights of women.

Scenes from Tess of the D’Urbervilles were also interwoven into the performance.

Marie was brilliantly portrayed by Fran Sansom and Tess was brought to life by the talented Emma Hill to provide a light-hearted entertainment on the lawn in front of Max Gate.

This year the New Hardy Players are presenting six open air performances of The Trumpet Major.

They will also be performing at Max Gate on Friday, June 29 from 7.30pm; Watercombe House from 2.30pm on Saturday, June 30; Lulworth Cove on Friday, July 6 from 7.30pm; Bridehead in Little Bredy from 2.30pm on Sunday, July 8; at the Vicarage in Cerne Abbas on Friday, July 13 from 7.30pm and at Kingston Maurward on Sunday, July 15 from 7.30pm.

Tickets are available from Dorchester Arts by calling 01305 266926 or visiting dorchesterarts.org.uk