Poole set to host 2017 European Maritime Day

European Maritime Day is one of the largest maritime events in Europe and Poole, proud to have won the bid to host it in May 2017, is already making preparations. Working with private sponsors and local businesses, the Borough of Poole hosted a sponsorship launch event at the Kitchen in Poole Park which was attended by more than 80 people. Stakeholders from local firms, PR companies and those working in the UK maritime sector gathered to hear more details about the two-day international conference and the host of public events planned to bring benefits to all people across the area. Since 2008, European Maritime Day has been held by a different country each year and host cities have included Brussels, Rome, Gothenburg, Athens and Valletta. Being the first time this event will take place in the UK, Poole will act as representative to the international maritime community and will ensure businesses have the opportunity to showcase their technology, products and services to a European market. The two-day international conference, taking place at Poole Lighthouse on Wednesday 18th May and Thursday 19th May 2017, attracts Europe's most influential people involved in progressing maritime policy - industry leaders, politicians, EU Commissioners, academics and scientists. It will be supported by several business events as well as incorporating the Poole Harbour Boat Show as a family-focused maritime festival to celebrate Poole and Dorset's rich maritime heritage. Councillor Xena Dion, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, Borough of Poole, says: "We have been working really hard to bring European Maritime Day to Poole and were delighted to host a launch event to really move the work forward. The event promises to raise the Town's profile amongst the maritime community across Europe and is a great reason for Poole and surrounding Dorset to celebrate all things maritime with a fantastic festival. With tens of thousands of visitors expected we really are working to ensure local businesses can benefit as far as possible." For further information about European Maritime Day 2017 and the sponsorship and investment opportunities available please telephone 01202 633 353 or visit www.poolemaritimefestival.uk.