NON-stop entertainment is on offer in Poole as the 60-strong summer events programme was launched with a touch of Eastern promise.

A display of exotic belly dancing delighted guests at the Hotel du Vin as Wave 105’s Summertime in the South took off.

The largest free family events programme in the south ranges from fabulous fireworks and classic cars to rampaging pirates and the best of Europe’s creative arts scene.

“This fabulous programme of events is one we are proud to support,” said Martin Ball, managing director of Wave 105.

“This year promises to be one of the best and is packed with gems for everyone to enjoy,” he said.

“The mix of world class sports, cultural events and popular family favourites is a celebration of the diverse entertainment on offer that makes Poole one of the top destinations in the UK.”

As well as the popular Summer Breeze Thursday fireworks in July on Poole Quay and on the beach in August, there are events throughout the shoulder months with the Street Arts Festival on May 7 and Mini Steam on the Quay on May 19.

There will also be the return of Paye Day and Poole Afloat which will be taking place on June 16.

Ten months of special events kicked off in February with Rallye Sunseeker and Summer Breeze goes global with belly dancing, African drums and various themes from around the world, complimenting the live music, jugglers and musicians.

“The Poole Tourism summer events programme promises non-stop entertainment throughout the summer until September,” said John Corderoy, managing director of Breeze Volkswagen.

“We regularly support business and tourism projects which help to ensure the vibrancy of the area, and are pleased to back the town’s summer events which are now renowned within the local community.”

Poole Tourism chairman Bruce Grant-Braham said they were proud of the dedication and support of their sponsors.

“The partnership between local businesses, tourism and the Borough of Poole is second to none and brings huge benefits to the community, supporting local jobs and businesses as well as providing fantastic free events for all the family to enjoy,” he added.

PROGRAMME OF DATES

WHAT’S coming up this summer:

• April to September – Coles Miller Dream Machines every Tuesday from 6pm on Poole Quay.

• May to September – Rockley Park Quay for My Car on Fridays.

• July – Summer Breeze on the Quay sponsored by Breeze Volkswagen, Thursdays from 7pm.

• August – Summer Breeze on the Beach sponsored by Breeze Volkswagen, FJB Collection and Sandbanks Beach Café, Thursdays from 7pm.

• Most Wednesdays – Speedway, Poole Castle Cover Pirates, Wave 105 Poole Stadium from 7.30pm.

• June 16 – Harry Paye Charity Fun Day and Poole Afloat, Poole Quay.

• July 6/7 – British Beach Polo Championships, Sandbanks.

• July 13 – Olympic Torch Relay, Poole Quay and surrounding areas.

• July 14/15 – Sandbanks Beach Volleyball Festival.

• September 1 – Inside Out Dorset, Street Arts Festival, Lower High Street and Poole Quay.

• November 5 – Poole Quay Fireworks Display.