Dorchester ‘first town in south-west to welcome heroes’

Dorchester has become the first town in the south-west of England to offer an official hero’s welcome to soldiers in the armed forces.

The Dorset Echo reported that it is one of 19 towns across the nation offering additional hospitality to military heroes.

Under the Heroes Welcome scheme, members of the armed forces can display their military ID in all establishments displaying the campaign’s logo.

Local businesses that have signed up to the scheme will give discounts and special offers to troops as a way of thanking them for their work overseas.

Cafe owner John Fiori told the newspaper that the campaign – which is backed by Dorchester Town Council and the area’s Business Improvement District – is a "worthwhile cause".

He said: "Servicemen and women will always get a friendly smile in here. We want to do anything we can to help."

Last month, the Royal British Legion announced its Friends of the Forces Awards.

Backed by Prince Harry, who served in Afghanistan, the awards are intended to praise businesses, individuals and community groups that offer support to the military.

Posted by Simon Williams