TOURISM bosses have spelt out the true value of bank holidays as Bournemouth and Poole enjoyed a record-breaking weekend.

Before the weekend, some critics suggested the country had had enough of bank holiday Mondays and the crippling traffic congestion and overcrowded airports they bring.

But try telling that to local hoteliers who are currently reaping the benefits from a bumper weekend.

Over Saturday and Sunday, more than 125,000 people basked in the sun on Bournemouth beaches - sun-worshippers flocking into the town at the rate of 10,000 an hour.

Bournemouth's Visitor Information Bureau had to turn away people looking to book one night's accommodation in the town and it was a similar situation in Poole.

Mark Smith, Bournemouth's head of tourism, said: "It's been a great bank holiday weekend - at one stage we simply couldn't find enough accommodation for people.

"Sunday was the best day of the year for us and this bank holiday weekend was a fantastic way to end a pretty good summer.

"Judging by the amount of people relaxing on the beaches, I would say it's been a good bank holiday for them as well. It's lovely to see people enjoying themselves."

A spokesperson for Poole tourist information said: "All of our accommodation was full on Saturday night - that's campsites, bed and breakfasts and hotels - and it was very busy on Sunday night as well.

"The Quay has been extremely busy with boat trips and together with Poole Park Fest, it has been a very successful weekend."

First published: August 30