Renowned Victorian novelist and poet Thomas Hardy, pictured, will be celebrated at the 27th International Thomas Hardy Festival and Conference from July 25 – August 1 attracting literature buffs from across the globe.

Lectures from keynote speakers followed by panel sessions at the Dorford Centre in Dorchester will give academics and scholars the opportunity to present their current research.

The event includes workshops on poetry, creative writing and how to use the Hardy Archive for research.

Coach tours, visits and walks are on offer every afternoon with trips planned to Oxford, Sherborne, Portland, Wolfeton House, Weymouth, Lulworth Cove as well as Hardy’s Cottage and Max Gate.

Evening entertainment includes music, dance and song from The New Hardy Players, The Hardy Annuals, Tim Laycock and Friends, James Graham, a promenade performance by Wey Valley Academy and of course, a Hardy Quiz.

Grassby Funeral Services and Dorchester BID are sponsoring the event.

To join and receive discounted tickets visit hardysociety.org/event