SOUTHAMPTON residents will be treated to a summer of fun when Seaside in the Square returns due to popular demand.

GO! Southampton has announced the city centre beach will run from July 19 to August 11 which will see Southampton Guildhall Square, Above Bar Street, transformed into an urban beach.

Visitors will have the chance to enjoy a variety of summer-inspired drinks made by Orange Rooms, take part in sandcastle competitions and relax in deckchairs.

Other activities on offer will be an outdoor cinema, live music, comedy and theatre in association with Nuffield Southampton Theatres. Beach-lovers will also have the chance to try out sports with free taster sessions provided by Decathlon and Rees Leisure.

Giles Semper, from GO! Southampton, said: "The inaugural event last year was such a success that we just had to bring it back. It didn’t just bring footfall and new visitors to the area, it created a completely unique summer experience for those who live and work in the city, something we’ve never had before.

"Events like this achieve so many of GO! Southampton’s objectives and we’re very excited about the many economic and social benefits this year’s event will bring."

The Business Improvement District recorded more than 100,000 attendees last year for Seaside in the Square and believe if the same numbers visit this year, with half of them staying to eat dinner in a local restaurant afterwards, it could result in a £1m boost for the city.

The event will also have the YMCA as a community partner promoting how people can live happier, healthier lives.

Chris Hand, YMCA’s chief executive said: "Everybody loves going to the beach, and that includes us! YMCA is the natural community partner for this project and we will be working closely with all the agencies involved to help make this the best summer ever in Southampton."

The event will be free to attend and open every day from early morning to late evening.

GO! Southampton is working with its 634 members in the city, including shops, restaurants and other businesses, to promote the event.