SOMETHING fishy is going on in Weymouth.

Fish fans can rejoice – the Seafood Festival is drawing ever closer.

On July 12 and 13 around 50,000 people are expected to descend on Weymouth’s Old Harbour for the celebration of all things fishy.

With about 100 stands, many selling seafood and associated goods, the award-winning festival is not to be missed.

This year’s chef and expert line up includes Great British BBQ Champion Ben Barlett, John Wright from River Cottage, Masterchef winner and chef patron of The Casterbridge, Mat Follas and Dorset’s Michelin chef from Sienna restaurant, Russell Brown.

Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival Chairman Roger Dalton said: “Research shows that our eating habits are already formed by the age of five, so make sure you bring the whole family along to the Seafish Marquee to enter competitions and to be encouraged to eat more fish.”

Children can get involved in the festival’s new seafish ‘Have a go’ arena, where you can try your hand at lobster and whelk picking, or simply learn how to fillet a fish. ‘Passionate about Fish’ experts Duncan and Sue Lucas will be on hand to talk visitors through the ‘day catch’ from the Dorset waters, while chef Taher Jibet will be heading up a ‘whelk revival’.

Experts say there is a ‘fantastic’ supply of whelks just off our shores – try one, specially warmed up with a dash of Tabasco. Local fishermen will also be on hand to tell visitors where to get the best fish, with Nigel Bloxham from the Crab House Cafe helping to demystify the latest information on sustainable species. The festival will raise funds for The Fishermen’s Mission, a charity providing emergency support to fishermen in need.

The festival will be open Saturday, July 12 from 10.30am to 6pm and Sunday, July 13 from 11am to 5.30pm.

For more information visit dorsetseafood.co.uk