HOTELIERS are pinning their hopes on a combination of free events and fine weather to bring in the crowds this bank holiday weekend.

Traditionally the last bumper weekend of the year, a good August bank holiday could round off a positive season for Bournemouth and Poole businesses.

The weather forecast is for a fine and sunny three days, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 22 Celsius.

And a variety of free events are planned to add to the Bank Holiday atmosphere.

Huge crowds are expected at the last night of the 2CR FM firework display in Bournemouth tonight and at the Poole Park Fest, a free music festival taking place in Poole Park on Sunday and Monday.

The kids free fun festival continues in Bournemouth and Classic Cars on the Prom takes place on Sunday.

Mark Smith, head of tourism, said: "We've had another successful year and even with this changeable weather, we've seen an increase in people coming to Bournemouth this summer and hotel bookings have also increased.

"With good weather predicted for this weekend, we're hoping it's going to be a good end to the school summer holidays."

But in Poole, Tourism bosses are attempting to extend the season into September. Events including Animal Windfest, the French street market and the Summer Breeze fireworks on Poole Quay are all expected to be popular.

Marketing manager Karen Wayman said: "A big priority for the Poole Tourism Partnership is extending the peak period of the year and we try to avoid even using the 'season' word."

Mark Haslingden, chair of the Bournemouth Area Hospitality Association, said: "Overall the season has been very positive. The weather has been kind to us, although the bad spell at the start of the summer holidays has meant August hasn't been as good as we hoped.

"There are rooms available this weekend and the weather forecast is looking good."

Don't miss the Daily Echo on Monday and Tuesday for pictures of many of the weekend's events.

First published: August 26