THE rope-making heritage of Bridport will be in the spotlight in a new event taking place this weekend.

Sporting challenges, heritage walks and live music will be just some of the activities on offer as part of the Bridport Ropewalk Fair.

All the money raised will go towards Bridport’s Literary and Scientific Institute and Bridport Museum redevelopment projects.

Emily Hicks, from the museum, said: “The fair will be about more than just a great weekend of fun and learning for all ages – organisers are keen that events before the fair will draw in community groups, young people and employers.”

Saturday will revolve around talks, walks and exhibitions in the town, while Sunday will be the main event with a family fair at the Millennium Green taking place from 11am. Stalls, activities and food will all be in the theme of rope and net, with mass skipping, Maypole dancing, a tug-o-war competition and the chance to trace your family’s history in the ropemaking industry.

On Saturday, Bonnie Sartin will give a talk on ‘The full rigged ship – Grace Hawar’ in Bridport Town Hall.

Tickets cost £8 and are available from the tourist information centre.

Local companies Huck Nets and AmSafe will welcome visitors on tours and local historian Richard Sims will be leading guided talks around the town, pointing out significant sites relating to the rope and net industry.

Places on the tours are limited and must be booked in advance. For details call the Local History Centre on 01308 458703 or email office@bridportmuseum.co.uk