On a crest of a wave

9:24am Monday 14th July 2008

Comments (1)   Have your say »

WEYMOUTH was a scene of maritime celebration over the weekend as locals and visitors enjoyed the Spirit of the Sea Festival.

A host of entertainment saw the town come alive as thousands flocked to the festival celebrating Weymouth and Portland's connections with the sea.

Events included the Henri Lloyd Sailing Regatta, matchstick model boat exhibition, shipwreck and rescue photographic exhibition, and marine exhibition.

Children who had taken part in the Primary College scheme at Weymouth College performed in a special maritime-themed parade through the town up to Hope Square.

An arena on Weymouth beach attracted sports fans for the English Beach Soccer Festival, while music lovers were treated to a range of live bands at Weymouth Beach Live. There was also a chance to sample some local culinary delights at the Dorset Seafood Festival.

Spirit of the Sea chairman and Dorset 2012 Legacy Manager Gary Fooks said: "It has been absolutely fantastic in terms of the people's support and enthusiasm.

"There were thousands of people turning up at for the music events and all the racing events went ahead.

"Six months ago we started off planning with just two events and we ended up with 30 events across 22 different venues.

"It really has captured people's imagination and we are going to make the festival even bigger for next year."