Pictures: Tall Ships 2023 marks final day in Hartlepool

Residents and those from further afield all took in the sunny and hot weather as the Tall Ships Races began in earnest this Sunday (July 9).

Attendees could be seen adorned in costumes as they walked along the promenade - with pirates and sailors proving popular choices.

Additionally, many sat down to grab a bite and a drink as they watched musical performances taking place from Navigation Point Stage.

Read more: Pictures: Attendees enjoy third day of Tall Ships in Hartlepool

Speaking on the event, Andrew Ayres, from North Yorkshire, said: "It's been a great day today.

"I just imagine what it was like so many years ago to go out on those ships and never know when you were coming back.

"It's been busy, I wouldn't say it's been incredibly crowded. To that extent, I suppose, from Hartlepool's point of view, [it's] good that they've organised it all, perhaps the turnout's not been as big as it would have been.

He said he believed yesterday's weather might have played a part in a reduced turnout on the final day.

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He added the best part of the day was seeing the event's titular ships pass through during the event.

When asked if he had enjoyed his time in Hartlepool, Mr Ayres responded with a resounding "yes."

Outside of the musical performances, there was also a display of gymnastics and athleticism on Irvines Quay opposite Victoria Harbour.

Many attendees were captivated as those entertaining performed impressive athletic feats.

Additionally, many could be seen enjoying a Ferris Wheel on Irvine Quay and eating at various stalls set up for the event.

This event marked Tall Ships first visit to Hartlepool for 13 years with the last time occurring in 2010.

Meanwhile, Margaret and Felicity, 12, from Newcastle and Durham, said they had a great time at the event.

Margaret said: "We've had a really good time, it's been nice, lots of things to see and everbody's very friendly.

"There's some really good music, I loved those drummers.

"We missed the boats going because we were late getting down here, it's just been a great time."

They said they would "definitely" recommend the event to others and said it had been a great few days out for them.

Speaking about the event on Friday, Cllr Shane Moore said: ""It is the first time we've hosted this event since 2010, we're really excited to welcome everybody back.

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"So far, it has gone absolutely brilliantly, we're seeing so many smiling faces, people from all around the world, not just the UK."

"It's lovely to see people enjoying themselves and to see the town alive like this as well."

Here are some of the pictures from today: