WEYMOUTH bids this weekend to host a prestigious international Sailing regatta.

Top sailor Bob Turner is flying to Genoa in Italy on behalf of the resort to bid for the 2005 world championships in the competitive J24 class.

The event would bring more than 450 international sailors and thousands of spectators to the area and would be a major boost to business and tourism.

It would also secure Weymouth's place on the international sailing circuit, with the resort's proposal lining up against rival bids from yachting capitals across Europe.

Mr Turner, of Weymouth, who campaigns his own J24 and is competing in the 2002 world championships in Canada, will submit Weymouth's bid to the J24 world council. The proposal has been formulated with Steve Davies, of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council's tourism and corporate services department, and the area's yacht clubs.

Mr Turner said the success of the J24 UK national championships, held in Weymouth Bay for the last two years, could prove decisive.

He said: "The nationals gave us the reputation for first class organisation of top sailing events in superb waters.

"I don't want to be over-confident, but we've got a strongcase to present. We've run some high-profile events from Weymouth, including the 1999 Finn Gold Cup and pre-Sydney Olympic trials."

Weymouth and Portland Sailing Academy, on Osprey Quay, Portland, would host the scrutineering process, with racing run from Weymouth Harbour.

Mr Turner said he would also be emphasising the land facilities and attractions in South Dorset.

He said: "The event would take place over 10 days in September, when we are not conflicting with the main tourist season. The town would be well-primed to host the sailors and spectators."

Up to 80 boats from more than 25 countries would compete.

The J24, one of the most popular keel-boats in competitive yachting, is sailed by a crew of five. The class has produced many top America's Cup sailors.