2nd September 2010

WEYMOUTH: Worth its weight in gold

The 2010 Sail for Gold regatta has been hailed a huge success by the borough council and local business owners, after providing a £1m boost to the economy in Weymouth and Portland.

The seven- day event was based at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, with the majority of the 57 sailing teams from around the world – that’s 998 competitors and their support teams - staying in local hotels, B&Bs and households for the duration. Economic research indicates that the estimated benefit to the local economy is in the region of £1m.
A spokesman for The Venue at Southwell Park, Portland, stated: “We have been very pleased to work alongside the RYA and the sponsors of the Sail for Gold 2010 event and by working together we have been instrumental in helping set the scene for the forthcoming events including the 2012 Games.
“Not only were we able to offer first class hotel accommodation but also excellent spa facilities, storage areas, assistance with transport, catering for over 300 at a private function, and the use of our conference and training facilities. What was exciting was meeting the athletes and team managers from most of the countries involved and discussing their needs for the next two years.
“Without a doubt their presence over this period will have a massive impact on the local economy”.
Councillor Howard Legg, Brief Holder for Partnerships and Special Projects, said: “Not only does the borough’s role as host to international sailing competitions ahead of the 2012 Games help to raise our profile on the world stage, it also provides a massive boost to the local economy here in Weymouth and Portland. The economic success of this event gives us a clear picture of how local businesses are set to benefit massively from the coming of the 2012 Games.”

WEYMOUTH: Worth its weight in gold

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