West Dorset villagers are preparing to celebrate 1,000 years of community and heritage with a series of events throughout the year.
Wheels were set in motion last year to recognise and celebrate that 1,000 years ago in 1024 King Canute wrote a charter giving the area known as Porteshamme to his manservant Orc.
Stored in Dorset History Centre, with a copy on display on Portesham village green, this charter is the first written record that defines the area now known as Portesham.
Abbotsbury will also celebrate its millennium this year, but unfortunately, the written record has been lost to time.
A spokesperson for Map24, a group of locals planning the celebration of Abbotsbury and Portesham’s millenniums, said: “There is evidence of humans inhabiting this area of West Dorset since Neolithic times, but the Portesham charter is the first written record.
“To mark this important milestone both villages will hold a number of events throughout the year and some have already taken place.
“Villagers are entering into the spirit and celebrating in a variety of ways.”
A millennium garden is being constructed in Portesham and a calendar of events in both villages is on display in Portesham village hall.
The spokesperson said: “June, July and August will be the time of a series of events where we hope good weather will shine on us.”
June’s events will include open gardens and a festival of art on Sunday, June 9 from noon to 5pm in Abbotsbury.
n For more information on Maps24 visit MAP24.org or email maandp24@gmail.com