A NORTH-EAST port welcomed over 60 private racing yachts from Holland as part of a boat race today (TUES JUNE 24).

The yachts - which averaged about 12 metres in length - are members of a Dutch coastal sailing association, teh Nederlandsche Vereeniging Van Kustzeilers, and sailed in as part of a friendly annual race between various North Sea ports.

They arrived yesterday (MONDAY) and will be sailing on to Newcastle tomorrow (WED) before heading to Scotland.

Hartlepool Marina provided the berths and the town's council welcomed the 150 skippers and crew at an event at Hartlepool's Maritime Experience tonight (TUESDAY).

Hartlepool's Mayor Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher said: "It's a great opportunity for the crews to see the many opportunities our town offers in terms of tourism and business and to hear about the work we are doing to lay the foundation of our future prosperity through the Hartlepool Vision. I'm sure they will spread the word when they return home."

Allan Henderson, Hartlepool Marina Director, added: "It's such a pleasure to welcome the yachts to Hartlepool - I'm sure the crews will be impressed.

"Our town has one of the largest marinas in the UK and the fact that we can accommodate over 60 visiting ships further enhances our reputation as a 'can do' town which we established when we hosted the Tall Ships in 2010."

While the yachts are berthed in the marina, the best place for the public to see them is from the Navigation Point car park, at the end nearest to the Lock Office. People will also be able to bid farewell to them as the leave through the marina lock gates tomorrow (WED) between 11am and 12.30pm.

Ed Megens, Fleet Commodore for this particular ships’ visit, said: “Hartlepool is an excellent place to visit – we have received a tremendous welcome and have been very impressed by the way our visit has been managed. I think you can count on seeing us again.”