WEYMOUTH: We’ll be back!

The survey by Weymouth College students for the town’s Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, questioned 93 visitors chosen at random on two Fridays in December.

It provided a snapshot of why shoppers come to Weymouth, how long they stay, how much they spend and whether they will come again.

Thirty-nine came by car, 28 came by bus, 10 by train and six by coach with several shoppers walking into town, most coming to shop or meet family and friends.

Nearly half planned to eat in town and were there “for a few hours” while 31 shoppers said they would spend up to £50, 13 thought more than £100 and three more than £200 in a wide variety of outlets.

General comments said Weymouth was beautiful, people enjoyed coming to the “nice and quiet” town with a friendly atmosphere and a lovely beach.

Critical comments included a request for more shops and “poor and expensive parking”.

Chamber secretary Michel Hooper-Immins said: “We have agreed with Weymouth College to do another survey, probably in April or May, when there will likely be more holidaymakers about.

 “It shows that Weymouth is still a popular location and even on a cold day in mid-winter, our wonderful resort still has an attraction.”

College hospitality services programme area manager Janine Hodson said: “This survey provides excellent practice for our students’ customer service skills, communication skills and will help to improve their confidence.”

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