Why Weymouth Landmarks Will Turn Red This Week

Iconic landmarks across Weymouth will glow red later this week in support of a major Comic Relief fundraising challenge starting in the town.

The Jubilee Clock, Nothe Fort, Weymouth Pavilion and the town bridge will all be illuminated red on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th March. Red lighting will also appear along the seafront as the town prepares to host the start of a major fundraising ride for this year’s Red Nose Day.

The lighting display comes as Greg James begins his Comic Relief challenge, The Longest Ride, from Weymouth on Friday morning.

The BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show host will set off from outside Weymouth Pavilion at around 8.40am on Friday 13th March, embarking on a gruelling 1,000km cycle ride to Edinburgh.

Mayor of Weymouth, Cllr Caroline Nickinson, who will attend the send-off, said the town was proud to support the challenge.

“We are delighted to show our support to Greg James ahead of his challenge for Comic Relief by lighting up Weymouth’s iconic Jubilee Clock and the LED lighting columns along the seafront in red,” she said.

“It’s great to be joining forces with partners to shine a spotlight on this incredible feat in aid of such a worthy cause. Good luck Greg, we will give you a big send off as you set off from Weymouth to complete your 1,000km journey to Edinburgh.”

A spokesperson for Weymouth Pavilion said the venue was excited to be part of the launch.

“We’re thrilled that Weymouth Pavilion will play a part in launching Greg James’ incredible Comic Relief challenge. It’s fantastic to see Weymouth coming together to support such an important cause, and we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike to the seafront to cheer Greg on as he sets off on this remarkable journey.”

Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place Services at Dorset Council, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Greg James chose to kick off his Comic Relief challenge in Weymouth.

“It’s fantastic to see our town taking centre stage for such a fun and inspiring cause, and I know our community will be out in force to cheer him on. We’re proud to play a small part in supporting Comic Relief and the incredible difference it makes to the lives of the most vulnerable people.”

The start point for the challenge will be outside Weymouth Pavilion on the seafront. Greg is expected to leave at approximately 8.40am, although further details are expected to be confirmed on Radio 1 during the week.

He will cycle along the Esplanade towards Greenhill as he begins the first leg of the journey to Bristol.

Anyone planning to attend the launch is advised to arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and cheer him on as he sets off.