Two new heritage information panels have been unveiled in Dorchester.

Members of the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee gathered to see the unveiling by the mayor, Cllr Robin Potter, of the new panels which celebrate different aspects of the town’s rich history.

At Fordington Mill, the mayor revealed a new heritage panel which told of the history of the building and the Mill Street area. 

The Mill was converted many years ago into residential units and is managed by the Mill Street Housing Society.

The mayor was joined by Rupert Edwards, the current chairman of the society and whose grandfather started the Mill Street Housing Society and the mission before it almost 120 years ago. 

Cllr Potter said: “This heritage information panel on Fordington Mill provides a fascinating insight into the long history of Fordington Mill and its important role in the life of the Mill Street community."

Mayor of Dorchester, Cllr Robin Potter (left) and Kirsty Schmidt of Stay Original unveiling the heritage information panel.Mayor of Dorchester, Cllr Robin Potter (left) and Kirsty Schmidt of Stay Original unveiling the heritage information panel. (Image: Dorchester Town Council) The members of the Dorchester Joint Heritage Committee then walked up to the King’s Arms on High East Street for the unveiling by the mayor of an information panel about the history and importance of the building.

The building dates back to the medieval era and it was first recorded as an inn in the 16th century, however the current building dates from 1720.

The pub also featured in Thomas Hardy’s Mayor of Casterbridge with Hardy often dining and writing at the establishment here.

He would also entertain friends at the pub, including literary friends, such as Robert Louis Stephenson, in 1885.

The King’s Arms is now owned by the hotel chain, Stay Original, and its managing director, Rob Greacen said: “Dorchester is overflowing with historical connections and the community really do a great job of celebrating its unique past.

"The Kings Arms has been an important landmark for hundreds of years and we’re delighted to have a new heritage panel on the property explaining some of its past.”

At both locations, the Heritage Committee were also joined by the Dorchester Town Crier, Mr Anthony Harrison, who performed a cry to celebrate the history of the area.