A LATE surge in summer tourism is expected to hit West Dorset next month when a major Thomas Hardy novel is screened on BBC One.

A four-part adaptation of Tess of the D'Urbervilles, one of Hardy's most famous novels, will be shown from 9pm on September 14.

It has been penned by David Nicholls, whose past credits include hit TV series Cold Feet and a BBC adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing.

Bond girl and Rada-trained actress Gemma Arterton will take the title role of Tess.

Others to star in the drama include Gavin and Stacey actress Ruth Jones as Tess's mother and Hans Matheson as Alec.

Mike Nixon, who is secretary of the Thomas Hardy Society, said the novel drew heavily on Dorset scenery and could absolutely' encourage people to visit Hardy country.

He said: "When we get this sort of material filmed here, is definitely boosts the area.

"People will see it as a nice backdrop and that is one of the reasons we are so pleased Tess has been re-filmed.

"I just feel that many people will be attracted to this area.

"It will extend the tourist season from July and August time into October hopefully. I think hopefully it will boost our membership at the society too which is welcomed."

Tess of the D'Urbervilles is one of several new costume dramas taking to the television this autumn.

Other works to be showed include Little Dorrit by Charles Dickens, an adaptation by Andrew Davies.

ITV is also due to show a time-travelling version of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice called Lost in Austen. Tess of the D'Urbervilles was filmed in locations across Dorset, Bath and Gloucestershire.

Robert Gould, who is chairman of West Dorset District Council, said: "I do hope this new series will inspire more people to visit this autumn, to give our tourism businesses a boost. West Dorset is an incredibly beautiful place."