THE devastating fire at Parnham House is a reminder of the many treasures locally – and how easily they are lost.

Top writer Lord Fellowes referenced the stately home near Beaminster as he addressed a meeting of a Dorset society.

Experts from English Heritage have been assessing the damage at Parnham which was gutted in a suspicious fire on Easter Saturday.

Owner Michael Treichl was arrested in connection with the incident but has since been released pending further enquiries.

Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes, who lives at West Stafford, spoke about Parnham during the AGM of The Society of Dorset Men, of which he is president.

He said: “We should mark the terrible fire at Parnham House, a reminder of the many treasures that Dorset contains and just how easily they are lost.

“We must protect the many beauties of Dorset, we have been given a marvellous county, but it does need our protection.".

In his customary review of the society year, Chairman Stuart Adam declared “the society continues to thrive.”

He praised Selwyn Williams on “producing a wonderful Dorset Year Book – next year’s will be printed entirely in colour.”

The chairman also thanked Michel Hooper-Immins for “the excellent newsletter, which keeps members in touch with the society and what’s going on.”

Chaplain Rev. Dr. John Travell had begun the lunch with a special grace for St George’s Day.

Later, the chaplain led the traditional silence paying tribute to the 32 members who had passed away during the year.

It was agreed to raise the annual subscription to £15 from October 1. Life membership will cost £200.

Members acclaimed the continued presidency Lord Fellowes. Sir Anthony Jolliffe and Dr Paul Atterbury were re-elected deputy presidents. All officers were re-elected.

The Society of Dorset Men was founded 113 years ago. Originally intended for Dorset exiles in London the main activities of the organisation are now centred on Dorset. Today, there are around 1,150 members throughout the UK and all over the world.

The four objects of The Society of Dorset Men are: “to make and to renew personal friendships and associations, to promote good fellowship among Dorset men, to foster love of the county and pride in its history and traditions and to assist natives of Dorset who may stand in need of the influence and help of the society.