WEYMOUTH’S sporting reputation will be given a boost this summer as the town hosts the Sports and Well-being Festival boasting fun for all ages.

This year’s festival runs from July 11 to July 26 and follows a successful bid to the 'Inspired by 2012' Health and Well-being Legacy Fund.

Organisers Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, Dorset County Council and Active Dorset are working together to deliver a two-week programme of activities, fun and sport.

The festival aims to promote an active healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the great range of events, activities, sport clubs and facilities available throughout the area.

Jason Osborne, Borough Council brief holder for tourism and culture, said: “We want to invite residents, local businesses, organisations and clubs to be part of this exciting festival.

“This is an excellent opportunity to engage with the local community and raise awareness of the many exciting clubs, classes and outdoor activities happening right on our doorstep.”

A highlight of the festival will be the Sports and Well-being fun weekend on July 18 and 19, running from 10am to 5pm on both days.

Visitors to the festival will be able to try a range of beach sports including water sports. There will also be an opportunity to take part in many interactive health activities and workshops.

Cllr Rebecca Knox, Dorset County Council Cabinet member for communities, health and wellbeing, said: “The festival is very exciting and gives people a chance to have a go at some new leisure activities and find out about their health.

“We'd love lots of local people to come along for a friendly, fun and free experience - which we hope will inspire them to take on a new challenge.”

The festival will kick off on Saturday, July 11 with Weymouth’s Park Run at Lodmoor Country Park, Paddleboard event and ‘Have a Go’ on Weymouth Beach.

Sunday will get underway with Weymouth Rugby Club Tag Festival on Weymouth Beach and the GU Energy Triathlon at Lodmoor Country Park, Greenhill.

On July 16 and 17 the two-week event will also feature the popular Dorset Special Schools and Adults with Disabilities Sports and Well-Being festivals.

These provide the opportunity for more than 500 local children and adults with learning difficulties to take part in a range of activities including beach sports, boat trips, water sports, arts and crafts, and music workshops.

For more information about the festival visit dorsetforyou.com/sportsfest

Events and activities taking place throughout the borough during the festival include:

• Royal Navy Beach Rugby Festival on Wednesday, July 15

• The RAF Careers Weymouth Beach Volleyball Classic between Friday, July 24 and Sunday, July 26

• The Battens Charity Beach Volleyball Classic on Thursday, July 23

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830986

e: tara.cox@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoTara