SIX weeks of party action kicks off in Poole tonight - with the start of Summer Breeze 2016.

Live music, street entertainers and a host of other attractions will be on Poole Quay for the season opener, which concludes with a firework display over Poole Harbour.

Poole Tourism Partnership chairman Bruce Grant-Braham said: "Summer Breeze is the signal that the holidays have well and truly arrived.

"It is such a key part of Poole’s summer events and would not be possible without the support of Breeze Volkswagen and the Poole Quay businesses.

"It is fantastic to see everyone enjoying themselves and with a new line-up each Thursday evening there is always something new to experience."

The regular Summer Breeze nights will continue at Poole Quay for six weeks.

Tonight families will be able to hone their skills at a hoola hoop workshop, and make the most of a bouncy castle - while street entertainers engage the crowds with their Covent Garden style acts, organisers say.

Bands set to perform include Saints of Sin, the Usual Suspects, singer/songwriter Tara Flanagan and Latin outfit Solatin.

The family-friendly event is sponsored by Tower Park-based motor dealership Breeze Volkswagen.

Breeze Volkswagen managing director John Corderoy said: "We are really proud of supporting Summer Breeze and being part of an event that brings such a brilliant family party atmosphere to Poole.

"The talented musicians and entertainers put on such a great show, it is a real treat and Poole Quay is the just the best location to see them."

Poole Quay will be closed to traffic for the event from 6pm. The firework finale takes place at 10pm.

Visit pooletourism.com for further information.