WIMBORNE'S shops, restaurants and pubs will be showcased during a month-long event this April.

Visitors to the town will be encouraged to participate in more than 170 demonstrations, seminars, offers and workshops as part of Discover Wimborne.

The initiative has been organised by the town's business improvement district (BID).

Manager of the BID Tammy Sleet said Discover Wimborne will launch a host of popular events, including the folk festival.

Visitors and locals alike will be encouraged to explore the town and "discover Wimborne as a destination".

"Discover Wimborne came out of conversations with some of our businesses as a way to kick off the event season," she said.

"We want to celebrate everything that our beautiful town has to offer."

More than 70 businesses in the town will host themed events during the month.

Many will be free for guests.

Among the events on offer will be live music at the Oddfellows Arms, a 'facts, myths and legends' town tour with Malcolm Angel, craft stalls in the Square and an ice cream tasting at Number 9 on the Green.

Visitors will also be encouraged to join choirs, make pottery and decorate Easter eggs.

The month kicked off with a launch at the model town on Saturday, April 1.

Ian Faulkner, chair of Wimborne BID, said: "It's wonderful to see so many businesses participating in this wonderful event.

"Wimborne Minster is a town that has everything, and this event shows that like never before.

"With the support of the BID, the businesses have really come together to provide an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors."

For more information, visit the town's tourist information centre, Allendale House, Walford Mill, Tivoli Theatre or the Wimborne Model Town.