A DINOSAUR stopped traffic in Dorchester as a colourful cavalcade of costumes swept through the town's historic streets.

Drivers watched open-mouthed as characters representing millions of years of Dorchester's history marched down High East Street and onto South Street.

The dinosaur was joined by an Iron Age warrior, Tess of the D'Urbervilles, former Thomas Hardy actress 99-year-old Norrie Woodall, the town's award-winning crier Alistair Chisholm and present-day Mayor of Casterbridge Coun Tim Harries.

The parade was the launch of a campaign by the Chamber of Commerce to promote Dorchester as a tourist destination and a base for exploring the wider area.

Four times national town crying champion, Mr Chisholm will be spearheading the drive to promote the town with regular crying and walks around historic sites.

He will also spend one day a week crying Dorchester's praises around the region and hopes to go to London to cry for commuters in a busy train station.

He said: "Dorchester has so much to shout about, whether it's the Roman ruins, Thomas Hardy, Judge Jeffreys or any of the fantastic buildings in town.

"Is there a town in England with more history? I think not. It is such a fantastic place that we think more people should come to visit."

Thomas Hardy campaigner Mrs Woodall said: "I am thrilled that the importance of Dorchester's rich heritage is being recognised and that more visitors will be welcomed to share the delights of our town."

Chris Addison, who had donned the garb of an Iron Age warrior for the parade said: "There is so much heritage for Dorchester to celebrate and a campaign like this is just what it needs."

Councillor Harries said: "I am delighted to launch the Town Promotion Project. This town has more history than you can shake a stick at and there is something for everyone.

"We have an excellent ambassador in Alistair Chisholm, who will be promoting the town in a unique and memorable way."