Ferries are a boost '“ why not push for even more?

With the seafront bathed in glorious sunshine, royals rubbing shoulders with schoolchildren, and world-class sailors taking to the sea, it’s no wonder the prestigious cup, and our city, made headlines around the world.

Why wouldn’t it be an inspiration to holidaymakers to put Portsmouth firmly at the top of their list of the next destinations they want to visit?

As Portsmouth International Ferry Port celebrates its 40th year this summer, it has been revealed its cruise ships and passenger ferries provide a huge financial boost to the city.

Portsmouth City Council leader, Donna Jones, puts a figure of £750,000 on the impact they have on the local economy.

And she says she hopes even more visitors will flock to our shores, claiming the number of leisure ships docking next year could be up by 40 per cent.

The visitors who firms such as Brittany Ferries bring from the continent are welcome in all our pubs, restaurants, shops and museums.

Nigel Wonnacott, head of communications at Brittany Ferries, has praised our ‘blossoming’ city, comparing it positively to London.

He and people like Cllr Jones are working hard to promote the Great Waterfront City.

Who wouldn’t want to take a walk along the seafront, stop at one our fabulous new eateries along the way and go paddling in the sea?

In London, the alternative is a hot and sweaty tube to a museum teeming with tourists.

Portsmouth has so much going for it and Cllr Jones’ call for a five-star cruise terminal is welcomed.

We need to get behind her on this now that we are firmly in the international spotlight.