A TRAIL for visitors showcasing the 'best of Weymouth' is a new feature lined up for this year's Pommery Dorset Seafood Festival.

Dream Cottages, one of the sponsors, is introducing the Seafood Festival Trail for the 2018 event.

Participants will be invited to collect stamps dotted at various locations along a path and introduce both visitors and locals to all the things that 'make Weymouth so special and unique'.

Starting at the corner of Cove Walk and Nothe Parade, the trail sweeps around to the Stone Pier, then up through the Nothe Gardens, and back to Dream Cottages Offices via Newtons Cove where finishers will collect their certificate and medal.

The festival draws crowds of more than 50,000 people and hosts some of the top names in seafood produce, chefs, and fishing.

A not-for-profit event, the organisers raise money for the Fishermen’s Mission – last year £10,000 was raised.

Chefs for this year’s event which are confirmed include Neil Rankin, Sophie Michell, Duncan Lucas – Passionate about fish, Nigel Bloxham – Crab House Café, and Matt Budden – Hilton.

The free to attend festival will take place on the weekend of July 14 and 15 around Weymouth’s historic harbour.

Top sponsors this year include Seafish, Hall & Woodhouse, Volvo Cars Poole, Weird Fish and Dream Cottages. The festival’s title sponsor, Pommery Champagne continues its support.

Broil King, Weyfish and Lyme Bay Reserve Seafoods are also partners of the festival.

Sara Hicks – Director, Champagne Pommery said: “As we venture in to the next decade for the Seafood Festival, we are even prouder to support such an incredible festival.

"This year there is an emphasis on even more seafood stands and creative content.

"As ever our priority is to raise funds for The Fishermen’s Mission, fishing remains the most dangerous peacetime occupation in the UK."

Dan Marsland, Head of Marketing at Weird Fish commented: “We have a real affinity with this fantastic festival, which continues to get bigger and better each year.

"The variety of food available is fantastic."

He added: "Look out for our competition this year – you won’t want to miss it.”

Hall & Woodhouse is also returning as a top sponsor, and will be showcasing Badger Ales with beer and food tastings at The Ship Inn.

Seafish is the authority on seafood, from catch to plate and has supported the festival for many years. It’s mission is to support a profitable, sustainable and socially responsible future for the seafood industry. 2018 will see the return of #my2fishaweek inspiring and educating festival goers about seafood.

For more information about the festival see dorsetseafood.co.uk or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.