A MAYOR of Casterbridge by the name of Tess will add to the Hardy theme at a celebration of one of the writer’s most famous works.

The Hardy Society is laying on a series of events at its annual celebration of the author’s birthday to mark 120 years since the publication of Tess of the d’Urbervilles.

Supporting the event will be new Mayor of Dorchester Tess James.

Secretary of the Hardy Society Mike Nixon said: “Tess is arguably the best known of all Hardy’s work.

“Because it is 120 years since Tess was first published the whole weekend is geared towards that.

“The fact we have Tess James as our Mayor of Dorchester, who will lead the wreath laying at Hardy’s statue and then be our guest at our celebratory dinner, is excellent news.”

Councillor James said: “I’m delighted to be supporting the event and couldn’t believe they were actually doing Tess this year – it’s serendipity really.”

She added: “Hardy is very much a part of Dorchester.

“When I first came here for an interview in 1979 and I was waiting for them to announce the results I remember looking round the Hardy display at the museum.

“It’s great to be back here in my new role as the Mayor of Casterbridge.”

The weekend will start with a performance of Tess of the d’Urbervilles by the New Hardy Players at the Corn Exchange on Friday from 7.30pm.

There will then be a walk at 10.30am the following day starting from The Crown at Marnhull to explore the village of Tess’ birth and childhood.

The two-mile walk is free and all are welcome.

Ex-chairman of the Hardy Society Mike Irwin will give the annual Hardy birthday lecture from 3.30pm on the Saturday in the council chamber at County Hall in Dorchester.

There will then be more entertainment from the New Hardy Players followed by a wreath laying ceremony at Hardy’s statue.

Other events to round off the day include a re-creation of the dancing in Tess and a celebratory dinner at Panini’s in Weymouth Avenue.

Reverend David Heywood will lead a morning service as St Michael’s Church in Stinsford at 11.15am on Sunday.

For more information on the events and for tickets contact 01305 251501 or 01305 837331.