THE weather wasn't overly kind, which meant that not as many people as the organisers would have liked turned up for Looe's spectacular Festival of the Sea, but looking back over the three days, which took more than a year to organise, those involved have reflected that the pilot scheme for what most certainly will become a permanent feature on Looe's calendar of events, was more successful than they had dared hoped.
The crowds did pour in to enjoy the host of maritime features on offer, but they were mainly local rather than visitors, and given that the holiday season has got off to a poor start, and the first two days of the festival clashed with the Royal Cornwall Show, complete with the Queen's visit, Looe did very well indeed. However, it is hoped that in the future the festival will attract more visitors to the port to help lengthen the tourist season.
Only this week Jill Spencer at the town's Tourist Information Centre has reported that bookings are down for June compared with other years. But given the strength of the pound which means more to spend when travelling abroad, and guaranteed sunshine in warmer climes, it is understandable that holidaymakers are choosing to go abroad.
However, the event co-ordinators, the Harbour Commissioners and the Town Forum have been delighted at the success of the festival and plans have already begun for 2002. It is to be a biennial event with the established Lugger Racing weekend in between to ensure a nautical celebration. See page 11.