SOUTHAMPTON could be in danger of losing it's one remaining world class boating event - the Boat Show - to Portsmouth.
The warning comes as the city, which proudly calls itself the home of ocean sailing, comes to terms with being ditched by organisers of one of the biggest racing events in the sailing calendar, the Volvo Ocean Race.
Conservative group deputy leader Councillor Royston Smith commented that if the WestQuay Three development and plans to revitalise Mayflower Park were not timed right the September Boat Show, which pumps millions into the city, could also be forced down the M27.
The prestigious Volvo race was due to stop over in Southampton for two weeks next spring but organisers say the city failed to meet vital criteria.
It's yet another blow for the city's economy after the Global Challenge chose rivals Portsmouth ahead of the city for the start of last year's race.
So what now for the city that calls itself the leisure capital of the south?
More on this story in 'Spotlight' on pages 8 and 9 of today's paper
For more sailing stories take a look at www.sailsolent.co.uk or follow the link to 'Sailing' in the sport section.
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