Plans are underway to revitalise what is arguably a town's most historic event.

Spaces for Bridport’s Charter Fair are already limited, five months ahead of its return.

The fair will be focused on the arts centre and Bucky Doo Square. The square will host an eclectic music mix, reflecting the diverse talents to be found locally. On the arts centre stage you’ll be invited to 'Have a Go' with various activities, whilst local performers will give a taste of what they do best. In the foyer will be exhibitions featuring Bridport Market, a children’s painting competition and the Bridport Photographic Competition - made possible through the support of Bridport Camera Club.

The auditorium is set to be packed with stalls representing a wide range of groups showing exactly what they do in and for the community, and why they do it.

“We’re encouraging groups to inform and involve,” said event chairman Arthur Woodgate. “An approach inspired by Charter Fair stalwart Linda Larcombe, who has run a popular fundraising stall on behalf of the British Legion’s Women’s section for several years. Only this year have the rest of us realised that we don’t know what those funds are actually for - it’s to support the disadvantaged families of serving and ex-service men and women, and the realities of many of their lives are frankly heart-rending.”

The arts centre forecourt will include ramps for skate boarders, BMX bikers and scooterists, a large feature of the fair in past years, together with acoustic music and majorettes.

The Charter Fair celebrates the granting of the first Market Charter by Henry III in 1253 and the reconfirmation of the right to hold a market by Elizabeth I in 1554. Today, Bridport’s market is rated in the top 10 markets nationally, and it is considered unlikely that the Bridport community would be what it is without it. Mr Woodgate added: "The fair seeks to reflect this community – what it does, who does what and why.”

The fair is also partnering up with the Bridport Citizens Charter, which has seen Bridport recognised as the first Rights Respecting Town in Great Britain, following York’s declaration as the first Rights Respecting City. There will be activities on the day focusing on both the old and the new charters.

For more information, contact Mr Woodgate at a.c.woodgate@btinternet.com or call 01308 423767.