CHRIS Grayling has said that Weymouth will "continue to flourish" if Britain votes to leave the European Union in June.

The Leader of the House of Commons, and former Justice Secretary, was shown around the town by Conservative councillors before addressing party members at Weymouth Pavilion.

"My view is that Weymouth would continue to flourish outside the EU," he said.

"No one is suggesting we are going to restrict tourists or trade.

"My view is that Weymouth would actually benefit from an out vote because we would be able to spend more on the health service and it gives us the ability to control not the flow of tourists but the migrants coming into this country.

"It would let us have some control and some limits."

Mr Grayling said he thought Weymouth was a "great place" and said that the government is committed to protecting the town.

He added: "We want to make sure our long-standing resorts flourish.

"This is a sign of our interest and commitment to Weymouth."

South Dorset MP Richard Drax joined Mr Grayling for the walk and Andrew Graham, Conservative candidate for Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, met him at Weymouth Pavilion.