I had the privilege this summer to work as Weymouth and Portland Ambassador and met many wonderful people – visitors and locals alike.

It was amazing to be part of the opportunity to put Weymouth and Portland on the map and to prove that we were capable of delivering a world-class visitor experience.

It is regrettable that our leader Gary Fooks will no longer be working for Weymouth and Portland as he is a truly inspiring man.

I sincerely hope that there are others in the local council with his drive and determination who will bring other events to Weymouth thick and fast and continue to utilise the Weymouth and Portland Ambassadors to make the experience for visitors as good as possible.

Now is the time to be bidding for the Tall Ships Race to start here. We have the necessary infrastructure to run the park and ride and close the town centre roads to make it a pleasure again, to stroll along the Esplanade.

Perhaps now is the time to start the Portland Boat Show to rival that which takes place in Southampton?

I hope our local councillors and business leaders are already meeting to discuss ideas to keep Weymouth and Portland on the map and the local people buoyed up and prevent a slide back into apathy!

Helen Toft, Hillcrest Road, Weymouth