The aim of the South Dorset Association is to make membership more enjoyable through local social activities. In 1969 the Dorset Centre was established which covered the whole of Dorset. As membership increased, six new associations were set up covering Christchurch, Bournemouth, Blackmore Vale, Golden Cap, East Dorset and Purbeck. Later it was proposed to set up another association covering Blandford Forum, Dorchester and Weymouth, a move which was supported by the other Dorset associations, and South Dorset Association was founded in November 1994. The area extends from the Blandford district in the north east to Evershot in the north west, with the south eastern corner at Ringstead Bay and West Bexington at the south western extremity and includes Weymouth and Portland.
We organise day trips to places of interest such as National Trust properties, other houses, gardens and places of historic importance Our meetings feature illustrated talks on a whole range of subjects in a variety of locations to make it easier for more members to attend. Typical venues are St Aldhelm’s Weymouth and Brownsword Hall, Poundbury Dorchester. In addition we hold a number of social events each year, such as lunches and quizzes. We keep in touch with our members via a twice-yearly newsletter which details our programme of events and also keep members updated with news by email.