SPORTS fans took to the great outdoors to shout about the area’s ‘superb’ natural resources.

The first BIG Dorset Outdoor Weekend encouraged people from near and far to try out new activities, from paddle boarding to bowls.

Organiser Roy Griffiths said the weekend was ‘fantastic’ and that – subject to funding – it’s ‘absolutely’ going to make a comeback next year as part of the county’s packed events calendar.

There were more than 25 outdoor activity and adventure events taking place across south Dorset – most in Weymouth and Portland – as part of the weekend, which was funded by Weymouth BID and involved a number of leisure operators.

Mr Griffiths said he was pleased to see operators communicating and working together.

“Everyone’s doing their own thing, the Official Test Centre, sailing academy, the sailing clubs, but no one’s joining it all together and that’s what this weekend has been about.

“The communication between activities providers is improving. Everyone’s now got more knowledge about what each other does.”

He added that the weather had been ‘great’ across the weekend, attendance was ‘encouraging’ and feedback from providers was ‘excellent’.

“A lot of people may say ‘I’ve always fancied a go at this activity’ and this event is about giving them that chance. I know of one chap who had a go at windsurfing a few years ago. He loved it, bought all the kit and eventually ended up buying a caravan in the area so it does bring more people in and benefit the economy.

“Those getting involved have been a real mixture of visitors and locals.”

There was something for everyone across the weekend.

Mr Griffiths had a go at bowling at Greenhill Bowls Club on Saturday.

He said: “The views were magnificent. People come to Weymouth just so they can say they’ve bowled in such a superb location.”

And there’s more to look forward to next year.

Mr Griffiths said: “Personally I think we could double the number of events. A lot of people wanted to get involved but couldn’t, for one reason or another. Next year, we’d be looking to get the diving club more involved especially.”