THERE is no better place for a holiday - or the Olympics - than Dorset, says Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

The PM was visiting Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy yesterday on the first day of his summer break.

Mr Brown explained why he chose Dorset for a family holiday this year.

He said: "I have been holidaying in different parts of Britain for the last four years.

"This is the best place in the world to be, especially with young children.

"Look at the weather and the enthusiasm of people.

"I am looking forward to spending some time around here, getting a rest and meeting with friends."

After arriving in Weymouth by train, the leader was taken to the sailing academy where he discussed the progress of 2012 preparations with organising committee chairman Lord Coe and Royal Yachting Association members.

After a short meeting with organisers Mr Brown took a tour of the site, chatting to people and signing autographs for youngsters during the last day of the Volvo Musto National Championships.

Speaking before going back to London because of a new foot and mouth outbreak, he said: "This is not only the best place in the world to have a holiday, it is great that in 2012 it will send a sign that we are a great sporting nation," Mr Brown said.

Mr Brown, who often visits Cape Cod in the US, had a much shorter journey to make this year to meet wife Sarah and sons John and Fraser following his Portland visit.

Activities he said he was looking forward to during his break included reading, playing tennis and watching football. I am looking forward to some great weather but, even if the weather isn't good, this is a wonderful part of the country.

"I want to congratulate people in the tourist industry who show it is great place to come," Mr Brown said.

Weymouth and Portland's National Sailing Academy will be the first Olympic site to be completed, expected to be ready next year.

Mr Brown said: "What is fantastic here is that there are plans for the future. The legacy will go on for years to come and will not just be the buildings and facilities, but young people taking up sailing and leading the world in this area."

Royal Yachting Association race manager John Derbyshire said the meeting with the PM had been a great success.

Mr Brown was particularly interested in finding out about community involvement with the event, he said.

"We are delighted Mr Brown came to visit. We only found out yesterday evening that Mr Brown was coming.

"I think it's fantastic that he broke into the start of his holiday to come to the academy."

Mr Brown's trip to Dorset is being seen as an attempt to distance himself from predecessor Tony Blair who enjoyed exotic trips to Tuscany and Sir Cliff Richard's Caribbean villa.

Conservative leader David Cameron and Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Menzies Campbell are also expected to enjoy holidays closer to home this year, both going to France.

Following his trip to Dorset, Mr Brown will spend time at his family home in North Queensferry, Scotland.