Weymouth's Seafest set to go ahead after U-turn

A famous summer seafood festival in Weymouth is set to go ahead after it was announced three weeks ago that it was going to be cancelled.

Following a change in management, Seafest's new organisers have advised visitors to "save the date", via social media.

Plans for the festival had been abandoned due to cost increases and a drop in sponsorship.

But the festival, which attracts around 10,000 visitors, is set to go ahead after all, following intervention from a group of local businesses.

Local harbourside fishmonger Weyfish have now taken responsibility for the event.

Weyfish owner, Sean Cooper, said:

“When we learned the festival was in doubt, phones buzzed, conversations started, and everyone agreed we simply had to act. The Festival is a very special platform for our spectacular local seafood, as well as the many growers and producers that make Dorset such a fantastic food and drink lovers’ destination. It really puts us on the map.

“Importantly also, it’s a celebration of sustainability. The Weymouth fishing fleet is the archetype of sustainable fishing. Small, inshore day boats, using nets, pots and lines, catching enough to meet demand, with little or no waste. This town is an example for coastal communities nationwide.”

Event Director, Pipa Gibb, said:

“We are already in conversation with many of the event’s committed sponsors, exhibitors and supporters and we’re discussing how to ensure the 2024 Festival achieves everything last year’s event did for the town - plus more.

"In particular, we want to make the most of the location. In the past, the harbourside provided a lot of freedom, but post the redevelopment of Custom House Quay this location simply isn’t suitable for such a large and popular event. The Peninsula is a fantastic location for live music, improved seating and family friendly activities.”

The 16th edition of the Dorset Seafood Festival is set to take place on 7 and 8 September, on the Weymouth Peninsula.

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