FEARS that Dorchester could be losing its distinct character were expressed today after the futures of two historic buildings in the same street were thrown into doubt.

Grade two-listed Judge Jeffreys tea rooms in High West Street, dating back to at least 1398, is due to close next week with question marks also surrounding the Mock Turtle restaurant after a bankruptcy notice was filed against owner Timothy Emberley.

With the oldest shop in town, Templeman - which dates back to 1886, recently announcing plans to close, concerns have now been raised.

Dr Margaret Rehahn, chairman of Dorchester Civic Society, said: "Judge Jeffreys is a very historic building and is popular with tourists and locals alike. It is something we should treasure and I just hope it remains in the same format."

The famous timber lodgings - where Chief Justice George Lord Jeffreys presided over the trials of the Bloody Assize in 1685 - contains two Jacobean rooms and Tudor fireplaces. Among the former owners include BBC director general Greg Dyke, who purchased the building in 2000 but sold it a couple of years later.

West Dorset District Council said they had not received any information about plans for the building.

Dr Rehahn said there was a worry that more traditional traders could follow the way of Templeman, which is due to become a hairdressing salon next year.

She said: "Dorchester is very distinctive, which is one reason it is so popular. But we need to preserve the town's history to ensure we do not become just like any other town."

Dorchester chamber of commerce president John Manley added: "New investment is coming into Dorchester, which is great, but it's vital we try and retain the heritage of the town as much as we can.

"Nobody is against change, but we wouldn't want the town to lose its character."

But Tony Foot, of estate agent Jackson Stops & Staff, claimed the impact on the town would be minimal: "Dorchester does have a very distinct charm, which is where a lot of the businesses make their money from. The town is changing but I'm sure it'll keep its heritage."

No one was available for comment from either Judge Jeffreys or the Mock Turtle.