Weymouth’s first non-alcoholic bar has officially opened.

Dry Dock on St Thomas St has opened its doors to the public.

Founder, Sam Watson said: “It far succeeded my expectations - I didn’t have massive expectations but the feedback that we have received has been 99 per cent positive.”

He explained that now the non-alcoholic venue had finally come together it was ‘different’ than he expected, ‘but in a good way.’

The day of the opening saw Weymouth Mayor Cllr Kate Wheller ‘cut the ribbon’ and officially welcome visitors into the premises.

Sam said: “It was really good, we had really good support from the public.

“We had live music, a fun quiz, a raffle with prizes and food from local suppliers.

“We had a nice day and raised awareness.”

Dorset Echo: Dry Dock's open dayDry Dock's open day (Image: Dry Dock)

The venue has a great range of non-alcoholic beers, wines and beverages on offer, including Lucky Saint, Free Damm, Guinness and Doom Bar.

Dry Dock is for everyone, including those  who do not drink but still want to go into town and enjoy the atmosphere and benefits of an alcohol-free pub, such as darts, pool, quizzes, live music or just a place to meet with friends.

Now, Sam plans to welcome different community groups to use the venue.

“We are starting to use the space for community events and groups.

“The non-alcoholic bar will celebrate National Recovery Month in September.

“Andy’s Man club start in three- or four-weeks’ time.”

The business owner has ideas in mind for the future of Dry Dock including a mobile non-alcoholic bar.

Sam explained that he recently attended a local festival and ‘struggled to find any alcohol-free drinks.’

He has since spoken to the festival organisers who have offered to let him have a pitch at the next festival if he continues with his vision.

Sam explained that anything could happen as over a year ago ‘I had the idea of opening an alcohol-free bar and now Weymouth has an alcohol-free bar.’

Sam and the Dry Dock team are keen for community groups to make use of the space and to get in touch via email at: stayhappy@drydock.org.uk