Seafood festival cancelled due to sea wall works

The organisers say they hope the festival will return in 2026

A seafood festival has been cancelled because of sea wall repair works, the organisers have announced.

The Dorset Seafood Festival was due to be held in Weymouth in September.

It comes a year after the event almost did not go ahead due to rising costs.

In a statement, the organisers said there were "significant" repair works happening at the resort's peninsula - the site of the event - but it hoped the festival would return in 2026.

The event has previously attracted up to 10,000 visitors a year.

The organisers said they were "frustrated" by the decision.

"These essential works, as confirmed by Dorset Council, are vital for ensuring the long-term safety of the area and our festival site," the statement read.

"Given the scale and unique nature of the festival, coupled with its close connection to the sea, relocating is simply not a viable option for us.

"Whilst we are frustrated that we have to to take this 'tide-out' break, we will be sharing lots of exciting news very soon, including our plans for 2026."

Organisers confirmed they had been in discussions with stakeholders about the future of the event and were grateful for "ongoing support" from the public.

They added: "We can't wait to welcome you back in 2026, for what promises to be our best festival yet."

Dates for the event next year are yet to be announced.