Dorchester'S town crier is set to cross the Atlantic to promote the county town among the residents of its American namesake.

Alistair Chisholm is hoping to forge links with the city of Dorchester, Massachusetts, which was named by settlers from the West Country, including a group from Dorchester, in 1630.

Today that settlement is part of Boston and the second largest urban centre in Massachusetts.

Mr Chisholm, who is asking the town council to back his trip, said: "I sense that we are at an important point in the long and fascinating story of Dorchester. "Whatever the future may hold for our town, I feel sure that its truly amazing heritage will play an increasingly important role.

"With this in mind, I intend to travel to Dorchester, Massachusetts, early in February to promote both the county town and my related tours.

"I propose to travel in my role - and my regalia - as town crier and local tour guide to raise awareness of and renew interest in 'the old country'. I feel sure my experience and skills will serve me well and ensure that Bostonians are entertainingly reminded of our many shared links and associations."

Dorchester Town Council members said they were in full support of the trip but would want to know more about the cost before agreeing to make a financial contribution.

Coun Trevor Jones said the venture could help boost another scheme taking place within the town.

"This may be a most appropriate trip as the script for the next Dorchester community play, which has now been written, is about the Reverend John White, who played a leading role in helping people emigrate to Massachusetts," he said. Rev White is buried at St Peter's Church.