More than a million visitors are expected to flock to Weymouth and Portland this year generating thousands of pounds for the local economy.

It’s going to be a jam-packed year with more than 250 major events and festivals planned for 2018.

The official launch of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council’s events programme took place at the Nothe Fort in Weymouth this week.

This year will see a colourful and exciting mix of events to draw more visitors to borough.

Competitors, families, friends and event enthusiasts are expected to generate more than £275,000 for charities and good causes over the year.

Many of the borough’s most loved events will be back including the Wessex Folk Festival, armed forces celebrations and Chickerell Steam and Vintage Show in June, Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival in July, Weymouth Carnival and fireworks in August, Nothe Fort Military Weekend and Weymouth Keelboat Regatta in September, Lions Beach Motocross in October, Guy Fawkes celebrations in November, and the Christmas pantomime, Chase the Pudding and the Lions Christmas Day Harbour Swim in December. The Ironman 70.3 triathlon will also be returning and the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has another busy year ahead with a number of high-profile sailing championships including the Byte World Championships, the RS 25th Anniversary Games and Weymouth Speed Week. See visit-dorset.com