West Bay Day 2014 has been hailed a success by organisers after raising over £2,500 for charities.
Residents and visitors turned out in their droves to see EastEnders stars Ricky Groves and Cliff Parisi, who played Garry and Minty in the soap opera, open the event and sign autographs.
The action-packed day on 3 August included free live music with five bands playing throughout the afternoon and evening.
There was a display of classic cars and vintage motorbikes, a bouncy castle with slides, a surfboarding simulator and a mobile skate park and circus skills activities.
Food was available throughout the day and a bar was run by the Crown Inn.
Events for children like the chalk wall proved popular – as well as a history stand which looked at West Bay during the First World War.
The event was organised by Chairman of West Dorset District Council Gillian Summers and Bridport Harbourmaster James Radcliffe.
Mr Radcliffe said: “This is what West Bay Days are all about – bringing families to the bay to enjoy the atmosphere of a small but vibrant holiday area, and not having to break the bank to do so.”
The RNLI received over £2,000 from the day and Weldmar Hospicecare Trust received over £500 from the sale of candles which were lit at dusk all along the Jurassic Pier.
Cllr Summers said: “This event is not just about how much we raise for charity, but about the experience and value for money we offer our visitors. Local businesses benefit as well and they showed their appreciation by giving wonderful raffle prizes and sponsoring our bands.
“West Bay Day is all about supporting the community and by popular request we lit up the East Cliff once again, creating a memorable experience for all who saw it.
“The day was very hard work for a small band of organisers, and we will be looking for some more volunteers next year so save the date now and look forward to 2 August 2015.”
