2018 Birthday Weekend
The 2018 Birthday Weekend will begin on Saturday 2nd June (168 years after Hardy was born).
Our events begin with a 3-4 mile walk on Egdon Heath, in the footsteps of Eustacia Vye, visiting Rainbarrow, Mistover Knapp, and Blooms-End.
Meet at Thorncombe Wood Car Park (NGR SY724922).
This walk will be led by Tony Fincham. Lunch will be available after the walk, at the National Trust's Hardy's Birthplace Visitors' Centre.
3.30pm The Birthday Lecture (The Dorford Centre, Top o' Town, Dorchester)
Professor Roger Ebbatson (University of Lancaster) - 'Materiality and Spirituality in Jefferies and Hardy: The Dewey Morn andTess of the d'Urbervilles'
4.30pm - Tea at the Dorford Centre
5pm - A performance by the New Hardy Players outside County Hall
5.30pm - Hardy's Statue: Hardy readings followed by the wreath-laying ceremony led by the Mayor of Dorchester and Professor Ebbatson; thence to St. Peter's Church where a wreath will be placed at William Barnes' statue
6.00pm - Buffet Supper at The Post Partridge, High Street East, Dorchester
7.30pm - Tim Laycock and the Mellstock Band - The United Church, South Street, Dorchester
SUNDAY 3RD JUNE
10.00am - St Michael's Church, Stinsford, Morning Service, followed by wreath-laying at Hardy's grave.
Preacher: The Right Reverend Karen Gorham