CONCERNS about Weymouth ‘losing its identity’ amid a merger with West Dorset were raised at a meeting of a historic charitable organisation.

It came as Robin Barrett was invested as Chief Ranger of Honorary Court Highclere No. 1 Weymouth of the Ancient Order of Foresters.

The new Chief Ranger welcomed the Mayor of Weymouth and Portland, Councillor Kate Wheller, to the Foresters’ Annual Dinner at Weymouth Golf Club.

Moving the toast to the civic authority, Sub Chief Ranger, Alderman Andy Hutchings, hoped the staff merger with West Dorset District Council would not mean Weymouth ‘losing its identity’. Mr Hutchings, a former councillor, has spoken of his fears about the merger before.

A shared service partnership has been created between West Dorset District Council and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, which has already saved over £3million. A merger with North Dorset District Council looks likely.

The borough council is set to leave its North Quay offices next year with many staff transferring to Dorchester.

Replying to the toast, Cllr Wheller said: “We are pooling staff and saving money – so that we won’t have to cut services. Put the staff where you like – it won’t make any difference to Weymouth.”

She added: “I am sad we are selling the Guildhall. My father Jim Goodenough was the Keeper there for many years, as well as the Macebearer. But we will have a presence in town and a council chamber worthy of Weymouth and Portland.”

The Honorary Court has met in Weymouth four times a year since 1887, when it was founded by Town Clerk Pelly Hooper.

Former planning officer Mr Barrett said: “I hope to raise a lot of money for my charity during the year and attract some new members to the Foresters.”

His chosen charity for this year is the Salvation Army.