SOUTH Dorset went Golden Jubilee crazy as thousands of visitors flocked to join in the biggest party for decades.

In Weymouth, an estimated 600,000 people joined in the celebrations over the fun-packed weekend which was crowned with glorious sunshine.

But the event was marred by trouble and police reinforcements were called in to deal with a fight involving eight men in Hope Square yesterday.

One man was arrested while others were treated for cuts and bruises. Managers were forced to close the Red Lion pub after the fight.

Meanwhile, the festivities continued today under darker skies with the new-look Trawler Race, while tomorrow sees communities marking the historic jubilee with street parties.

Weymouth scooped a maritime first when it welcomed vessels from around the world taking part in a new cross-Channel Small Ships Race.

The ships, crewed by young seafarers working alongside more experienced sailors, proved an added attraction for the thousands of people which lined the quay and made for an impressive sight as they left the port bound for St Malo yesterday.

They were waved off by Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Hazel Bruce and dignitaries from the International Sail Training Association.

Mrs Bruce said: "The atmosphere in the town over the weekend has been great."

Weymouth and Portland's tourism chief Dr Douglas Gyte said: "It has been a spectacular weekend, among one of the best, and there's more still to come."

He added: "We have had problems finding accommodation for people over the last few days, the town is just so full up.

"There has been a fantastic atmosphere and what is marvellous is that things have been going on all over the borough."

Traders enjoyed good business and Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Bill White said: "It's been a fantastic weekend for businesses."

A new jubilee canon was fired from the Nothe Fort at midday yesterday to celebrate the Golden Jubilee.