A SERVICE of remembrance for those killed or injured on Dorset's roads will take place at Wimborne's Minster church for the first time this Saturday.

All are welcome to attend the service, which will be led by the Bishop of Sherborne, the Rt Revd Karen Gorham, as well as the chaplains who serve Dorset Police.

As reported, 16 people have died in crashes in the first half of this year – the same number who lost their lives during the whole of 2018.

Bishop Karen said: "Since living in Dorset I have been aware of the dangers of our road system and the number of accidents and fatalities there are year on year.

"I know many people are affected by road traffic accidents be they relatively minor or severe, including the families and friends of those involved.

"It is with this in mind that in partnership with Dorset Police, their part-time chaplains, and Wimborne Minister, I have decided to hold this service and invite all those who have been affected.”

Dorset's police and crime commissioner Martyn Underhill, who will be attending the service, said: "People who die or who sustain life changing injuries in road traffic accidents are not statistics – we need to remember that there are friends, family and perhaps children who will also be affected.

“This will be a truly special service and I would encourage anyone who has been affected by a road accident to attend, regardless of what their religious beliefs are – or even whether or not they have any.

“It will also enable us to give thanks to police officers and members of other blue light services who attend road traffic accidents and oversee road safety.

"These people often have to deal with incredibly traumatic incidents and it is right that we recognise the difficult but essential work that they do.”

The service will take place at the church this Saturday, September 21 at 11am. It will attended by the leader of Dorset Council, the High Sherriff of Dorset and the Chief Constable of Dorset Police.