A GOVERNMENT minister said there is already a great Olympic legacy when he paid a visit to Weymouth.

Olympic Legacy Minister Bob Neill visited the Live Site, made a tour of the Sports Arena and spoke with business owners in Hope Square before watching the sailing from the Nothe.

He said: “It’s great to be back in Weymouth, I’m delighted to see how well it’s going.

“There’s a real buzz around town, as I was walking from the train station it was really positive chatting to people.

“The team here has a very good vibe and a good feeling.”

Mr Neill added: “A number of things will benefit the area – it’s put Weymouth and Portland on the map internationally, which will be a great legacy.

“This will benefit the area as a sailing destination and there will also be broader sporting benefits.

“As well as the sailing centre facilities there is an economic legacy with various firms getting contracts for the Olympics .”

He said low visitor figures at the start of the Games would not have a negative effect on the local economy long-term.

He said: “I don’t think the numbers of visitors will compromise the economic benefits; last weekend it was packed and once it got into the swing it’s really taken off.

“Part of what we want to achieve for Weymouth is for people to come back in the future as a longer-term legacy.

“I have met with the Chamber of Commerce to ensure the local community can make the most of those opportunities and make sure people come back again and again.”

Mr Neill met with former English cricketer Mike Gatting OBE and sports instructors when he visited the Sports Arena on Weymouth beach. Mr Gatting said: “It’s great that Mr Neill has come to see the sports site in Weymouth, it’s a brilliant initiative and really encouraging to see people trying out new sports.”

Mr Neill said: “Certainly youngsters seem to be taking part in sport as a result of the Games and we have to capture that and make sure it continues with local schools and organisations right across the country.

“I hope Ben Ainslie ’s international success will help the community in Weymouth and Portland because it helps put it in people’s minds.”

The minister is planning another visit during the Paralympics.