DORCHESTER Christmas Cracker is back for 2021 and is returning with a brand new format for the first time in over 25 years.

This year Cracker Day will be taking place over a whole day, instead of a Thursday evening, in a bid to better support traders and businesses.

“With a year off due to Covid we decided it was an opportunity to try something different,” a spokesperson for the event said.

“We are expecting plenty of festive stalls, entertainment and a visit from Santa”.

For 2021 Dorchester’s Cracker Day will be held on Sunday December 12 between 11am and 4pm with festive stalls and a craft fair.

Steve Bulley, chair of the Christmas Cracker Committee, said: “It has been a mainstay in Dorchester for over 25 years and it's good to keep it going.

“Because a number of events have not survived we were really keen to ensure it did happen.

“We’re really excited this year and we are building on the success of the heritage day event in the summer.”

The reason behind the change is to keep things fresh, but also to allow the businesses that do attend to have a full day of trading.

Mr Bulley added: “It’s better for traders, of which the majority will be local.Getting a whole day of trading is good for small businesses.

“Previously any shops that did not open late had to draw in extra staff. Now shops will be open with Sunday trading hours and we are not having to ask them to find extra money to open.”

On the day festive stalls will line High West Street, with a craft fair at both Shire Hall and in the Corn Exchange.

The event has been organised by a committee of people including representatives from Dorchester Chamber for Business, Dorchester BID and the retail community in the town.

Organisers say moving the event to a Sunday for a full day will also be better for residents and people attending, of which Mr Bulley is counting on their support.

He added: “As we have seen with other events it is all about support not just from the committee, but from residents coming down, enjoying the day and maybe spending a bit of hard earned cash.”