Blyth port to host Tall Ships Regatta

Some of the most prestigious sailing vessels in the world are expected to take part

Tall ships are to return to the North East, with Blyth set to host a regatta next summer.

Dozens of some of the finest vessels in the world will arrive at the Northumberland port by 26 August 2016.

Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the weekend-long festival, which will also include concerts, a mock sea battle and sporting competitions.

The tall ships will then set off on a race across the North Sea to Gothenburg in Sweden.

Sail Training International has organised the event, along with the Port of Blyth and Northumberland County Council.

Councillor Scott Dickinson, the council's business chair, said: "It will give a tremendous boost to the economy and will put the county at the forefront of national and international media attention."