A BRAND new project has been launched to encourage visitors to come to Weymouth.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic Weymouth Business Improvement District (BID) has kicked off a summer marketing project to promote the town - and three plucky youngsters from Budmouth Academy sixth form will be helping as part of an internship.

The project aims to responsibly increase visitor footfall in the town centre. The interns will be taking to social media to spread the message, with a particular focus on initiatives that enable people to take part in normal activities, safely.

Claudia Webb, chief operations officer of Weymouth BID, said: "Covid-19 has not only had an impact on the people of Dorset’s lives and health but also taken a toll on the local economy. It is important that to encourage people back to Weymouth we make sure that they know that local businesses are working hard to ensure they feel comfortable and safe.”

The BID is working with Weymouth marketing firm ITSA Group to make the project happen - the latter organisation has organised for Budmouth students Freya, Katie and Trevona to take part in the internship, working from ITSA Group’s Weymouth office to engage with local businesses.

Freya said: “I'm so pleased to have the opportunity to help rejuvenate Weymouth after Covid-19. I can't wait to start promoting and helping the businesses that keep Weymouth alive and authentic”

Katie said: "Having lived in Weymouth my whole life, the town holds a special place in my heart. Reminding people about all the amazing local businesses we have is something I’m very excited to be a part of.”

Trevona said: “I've lived in Weymouth and Portland my whole life so I'm eager to take action; especially since the town's local businesses have provided me with much needed employment.

"This makes me passionate about the idea of helping businesses increase footfall and provide employment for more people like me.’

Praising local businesses for putting social distancing measures in place, ITSA Group’s senior project manager Jitan Kundalia said: "ITSA hopes to help share their efforts throughout the town, increasing footfall from local residents and visitors and helping to drive local economic growth.”