MESSING about on the river took on a Chinese feel yesterday.

A stretch of the River Tyne hosted the Chinese Arts Association's annual Dragon Boat Festival.

But it was two crews of paddlers from farther south, on the River Wear, who took the honours.

Spectators were also treated to traditional dancing, performance art and craft workshops.

Fifteen crews of eight to ten members, including five in the junior category, took part in the races. The decorative head and tails of each boat were designed and built by young competitors across the North-East during workshops.

Durham Chinese School's senior and junior crews won both events, to the delight of supporters thronging the riverbank, at Newburn, Newcastle.

The Chinese Arts Association, based in Newcastle, stages the annual event to help people learn, experience and appreciate the diverse culture of China