Create a song for Dorchester

Councillor James is hoping to get a record-breaking number of people to help write the song by telling her what Dorchester means to them and by getting involved in a special performance.

The event will take place on the afternoon of Saturday, March 3 at the town’s Corn Exchange. People will have the chance to go along to a workshop, learn the song and then perform it.

The event will also help to raise money for the Mayor’s chosen charities Dorset Night Stop, Mediation Dorset and Footprints.

Coun James said: “I’m hoping everyone will get involved. It’s going to be for all ages and all abilities. We want children and older people and people that wouldn’t normally sing.

“Everybody can do something.

“It’s going to be an inclusive community event.”

Once Coun James has collected in everyone’s ideas for the song then musician and director of Buzz Music Projects Kathie Prince and Geof Edge, a composer and lyricist, will create the lyrics and song from the ideas.

Coun James said she would like to collect words about Dorchester from as many people as possible.

She said: “If someone said: ‘Why do you live in Dorchester?’ a picture would come into your mind. Maybe you like it because it’s close to the sea or because the people are friendly or because of the facilities like the shops and skate park.

“I want ideas so it will help Kathie and Geof create the music to get a sense and flavour of Dorchester. The lyrics will come from what people have said.”

People will be able to go along to a workshop on the day of the performance from 1.30pm to learn the song and the first performance will be at 4pm. There will be a small charge which will be donated to the charities.

Coun James said that if the project was a success she hoped the song would be performed again.

Ideas for the song should be no longer than 12 words and can be sent to the Mayor via post at Dorchester Town Council, 19 North Square, Dorchester DT1 1JF or via email at Cllr.T.James@dorchester-tc.gov.uk.