The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) has just missed out on a Sport Industry Award.

The site was shortlisted for ‘Sport Venue of the Year’ alongside cricket grounds SWALEC Stadium and The Oval and Twickenham, Wembley and the O2 Arena at last night’s ceremony.

But rugby players Richard Hill and Serge Betsen presented the award to the O2 Arena, formerly known as the Millenium Dome, which has hosted gymnastics, tennis and basketball in the last year.

Tom Grainger, chief executive of Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, said: ‘It is excellent for Dorset to have such a strong representation at these national awards alongside the UK’s most established and successful sporting venues.

‘I am confident that the WPNSA’s dedication to running a world class venue is a major asset for the local
Weymouth and Portland communities who are benefiting economically through the increasing profile of this sailing venue and the surrounding area.’