Steve Shield, clerk to Sherborne Town Council, said the council offices would provide ticketing but is encouraging local businesses and attractions to get involved.

“We have a Tourism Forum of about 12-15 people who meet quarterly, and that will be an important mechanism for the town in future,” he said. “Maybe shops could help with stocking leaflets, giving information or even ticketing. We would welcome ideas from the town and will do our best to move forward.”

Work has begun on the microsite, which will include mapping and information in differing languages.

“We are investing quite heavily in that and it should be ready for early autumn,” said Shield.

Cllr Haynes, added: “We are looking at these three towns to look at how they might promote themselves and are supporting each with £20k for the transition. It’s always a difficult decision to reduce services we have historically provided but we cannot afford to fund tourism support activity at a local level across communities in Dorset.”

“The council’s role is to promote Dorset as a destination, so we will continue to develop the Visit Dorset brand to support the visitor economy and promote sustainable tourism as part of our Economic Growth Strategy.”

“The consultation has demonstrated that TiC services are still considered to be important by local people, visitors and businesses. It’s important that Dorset Council investigates all potential options for how these services could be provided in the future.”

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