If you are looking for an anthem for Dorset then it should be In Praise O’ Dorset.

The words are by William Barnes and in 1904 The Society of Dorset Men commissioned Frederick William Boyton Smith to set the poem to music for the inaugural meeting of the society.

In Praise O’ Dorset has been recorded by the Yetties.

“Friend and wife, Fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, Happy, happy, be their life!

For Dorset dear then give one cheer; D’ye hear? One cheer!”

Peter Watson

Manor Road

Dorchester