THE countdown is on for a tourism and leisure showcase promoting all that’s good about Dorset.

Attractions, events, businesses and interest groups will be represented at the Best of Dorset Show at Weymouth Pavilion this Sunday.

It’s an opportunity for firms to raise awareness and promote their products to locals and visitors while also doing some networking.

This year’s event, backed by the Dorset Echo, promises to be the best ever with more than 40 businesses, organisations and entertainers lined up. It is free and runs from 11am to 4pm.

Entertainment includes re-enactors from the Nothe Fort, a Punch and Judy show, Ed Hintze and Dorset for Singing, and WOW Youth Musical Theatre.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council tourism spokesman Ian Bruce said: “The Best of Dorset Show offers many local businesses and organisations a great opportunity to raise awareness of their services, generate new business and promote their activities and products.

“We are delighted to have Asda in the line-up this year showing the latest trends in its fashion show, Epic Printing for its quality print support and some fantastic talent on show with WOW, Let’s Dance, Preston Pantomime Kids and plenty of artistic flare from local arts group Artwey.

“Make sure you don’t miss out on supporting the Pavilion and coming to see some of the best of what Dorset has to offer.”

Exhibitors include the Friends of the Pavilion, a group set up to support the theatre. The Pavilion was at risk of demolition but the council has decided it should be handed over to a community group to run.

Cathy Page-Nash from the Friends says they are willing to work with whichever group takes over.

People are invited to visit the stand to find out more about the Friends, the group’s aims and how they can get involved in supporting the theatre.

Visitors to the show are encouraged to use the park and ride site which costs £1.50 for all day parking. People will also be able to ride on the Weymouth Sea Life Tower for a special price of £5.

Some exhibition spaces are still available.

To book a space contact the council’s events officer Charlotte Sheppard on 01305 838512. Stands are from £125 plus VAT.