As the Top Gear rigging is dismantled and the City traffic goes back to normal, the City fathers say they are extremely pleased with the success of the event. Festival organisers ensured that show goers were not disappointed with a spectacular display of motoring skills, dangerous stunts and super sports cars.

The Mayor, Cllr James Nxumalo said, “The success of the festival is another tick in the box that positions Durban as an international events and tourism hub. The Top Gear Festival did not disappoint and Durban is reaping the benefits of being a host city to the event.” Durban has identified the hosting of major events as a strategic move to promote tourism and economic growth.

He also commended the behaviour of show patrons and thanked motorists for their patience and understanding during the road closures that enabled the City to host a successful event.

Mr Philip Sithole, Head of Durban Tourism said that the Top Gear Festival was a major attraction in South Africa. “There was a buzz in the City as excitement of the Festival grew, the weather was fabulous and Durban saw thousands of visitors who extended their stay over the long weekend.”

While the economic impact is still to be determined, it is estimated that this is worth well over R100 million to the City. Figures just released confirm that Top Gear Festival once again entertained over 67 000 visitors over the past weekend of motoring entertainment. Organisers are pleased with the figures that match the sell-out crowd of year’s event. General buzz and chat on the ground indicated that there was once again a large contingent of travelling guests that had come in for the weekend especially to enjoy Top Gear’s Festival â€" figures and stats on this will however only be released in the coming weeks once all the market research is compiled and reported on.

The Top Gear Festival Director, Ms Hannah Cabral commended the City, “Thank you Durban! Top Gear Festival this year has been phenomenal. The shouts of the crowd coming together with the engine roars could be felt throughout the stadium and beyond creating an incredible energy. It’s been a fantastic event, our best one yet.”

But as the dust of the Top Gear Festival settles, Durban is also getting ready for a host of other top events. The Durban July, The International Boat and Lifestyle Show, the Open SA Surfing Champs, the Durban Air Show, the Durban International Film Festival and Film Mart, The Spar Ladies Race and John Cleese Live, and the World Transplant Games are all on the cards for this winter season in addition to many other events to ensure that everyone is entertained.

Durban truly is the warmest place to be this winter!

ENDS

For more information contact Thabo Mofokeng on 031 311 4820 / 082 731 7456 or email Thabo1.mofokeng@durban.gov.za

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality's Communications Unit. Contact Sohana Singh on 031 311 4805 or email: sohana.singh@durban.gov.za

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