SNOWBOARDERS, quad bikers and councillors have gathered to launch the Weymouth Motorcycle Beach race – one of more than 250 events to be held in the town this year.

The racing takes place on Saturday February 27 and Sunday February 28 and promises to be an explosive event for all motorsport enthusiasts.

A launch for the upcoming weekend was held at the Riviera Hotel on Bowleaze Cove yesterday.

Event organiser Fred Nandi said: “The jetpack’s fans run
at about 30,000 rpm.

“In between the races the crowds will be able to see Adam and Jamie perform an act on the beach.“This is the first device of this kind.

“Jamie holds a British record for the fastest snow boarder.”

In 2013, Jamie reached a speed of 94mph in Verbier, Switzerland and broke the world speed record on a snowboard whilst being towed by a vehicle in 2014, at 69mph in 2014.

Mr Nandi added: “We’re hopeful his performance will bring in more crowds to the race.

“This year, we’ve got German racers, French racers, Spanish racers, it’s a really international event.

Steve Davies, the promotions officer for Visit Dorset, commented on the huge number of events Weymouth and Portland have put on.

He said: “This year will see the borough hold over 250 events.

“These are great promotions for the area and the attract people to come to this great place.

“What is really remarkable is not only the quantity of events but also the diversity.

“Each year, there is a 10 per cent rise in the number of attractions.

“For a small town it is really astonishing.

“What’s more, over 90 per cent are organised by local people.”