SOUTHAMPTON residents will soon be treated to a summer of fun when Seaside in the Square returns this month.

GO! Southampton has announced the city centre beach will run from July 19 to August 11.

Once again it will see Southampton Guildhall Square, Above Bar Street, transformed into an urban beach.

Residents will have the chance to try a surf simulator on July 26, as well as free skateboard training sessions every Saturday. Beach-lovers can try out sports with free taster sessions provided by Decathlon and Rees Leisure.

Some of the attractions on offer are alternative donkey rides, Punch and Judy shows and quiz nights every Monday.

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

The YMCA, the event's official community partner, will host a family day at the beach on July 26 in celebration of its 175th anniversary.

This will feature a variety of activities for all ages, plus music from local acts in conjunction with Voice FM.

Seaside in the Square will be free to attend and open every day from early morning to late evening.

From 7pm entry will be for people 18-years-old and over for Sundown in the Square.

Giles Semper, from GO! Southampton, said: "We’re excited to build on the success of last year’s inaugural Seaside in the Square and bring some new activities to visitors.

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

The Business Improvement District recorded more than 100,000 attendees last year for Seaside in the Square.

They 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.

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