WITH just days to go before the inaugural Poole Harbour Boat Show, organisers are putting the finishing touches on a jam-packed programme of events.

The maritime showcase, organised by Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), is set to feature a range of activities for all to enjoy.

Visitors will be able to view a number of yacht and boats, including two tall ships berthed at Poole Quay that will be specially available for public view, while live music will entertain crowds throughout the weekend.

The free public event is to take place at Poole Quay, as well as at PHC's award-winning marina, Poole Quay Boat Haven.

Poole Tourism chair Bruce Grant-Braham has heralded the show as "fantastic", telling the Daily Echo that it shows "great confidence" in Poole.

Organisers believe thousands are likely to attend the event, which will span May 9 and 10.

One of the show's main sponsors, Sunseeker, recently unveiled the line-up for the live music stage, with confirmed acts including popular skiffle band Quinns Quinney. The band will headline on Saturday evening.

There will also be a mix of rock, jazz, blues, folk, shanty and indie music performed during the show, with local acts Empire Affair, Alex Roberts Duo, The Bonsai Pirates, The Dorset Wrecks and The Ace Trio scheduled to appear.

The weekend will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over the water.

Richard Lacey, chair of the PHC, said the organisation believes the town deserves "an all-encompassing boat show event, a celebration of the diversity of marine businesses, boating activities and related interests that are synonymous with our fantastic harbour".

There will be more than 60 stands during the weekend featuring leisure and outdoor clothing, marine merchandise, boating experiences and watersports.

Maritime-related charities will also be backed with the event.

Children's fairground rides, face painting and more will be on offer for younger sailors.

Mr Lacey said: "European Maritime Day in 2017 gives Poole the chance to put the town's marine spirit in the spotlight.

"We hope the boat show will become an integral part of that high profile event and we welcome everyone to come and sample what is going to become a flagship event for Poole."