THOUSANDS of spectators are expected to attend one of the region's longest-established sporting events this weekend.

Now in its 171st year, the annual Durham Regatta attracts rowers from across Europe to compete in a weekend of racing on the River Wear.

Last year, around 12,000 visitors enjoyed the spectacle of what is dubbed "The Henley Of The North" and organisers hope the numbers to be swelled by what is expected to be scorching weekend weather.

In addition to the usual rivalry between the university crews from Newcastle and Durham, organisers say they are expecting a record entry from around the country.

Phil Tully, captain of Durham Rowing Club, said: "All the crews on the Tyne, Tees and the Wear are training flat out and have every intention of doing justice for our region.

"One of our crews is made up of a collection of misfits; teachers, plumbers, gardeners, painters and the like, but they are determined to beat their opposition. They did it last year and they want to do it again".

In addition to the seniors races, many of the Great Britain junior squad will be competing at Durham ahead of August's World Championships in Germany.

Regatta chairman Don White said: "About 20 schools, from Newcastle, Sunderland, Hexham, Yarm, York and Durham, have their pupils racing at our regatta. Not only is it good for the sport but good for them as well, both in body and mind."

There will also be veterans races, a vintage car rally, refreshments and stands during the two-day competition, which is sponsored by Camerons Brewery and the city's Chase bar.

Spectators will be able to follow all the action on three large closed circuit television screens set along The Racecourse.

The regatta - which is five years older than Henley - was first staged in 1834 on the anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo.

The first regatta consisted of a procession of boats, accompanied by a band, with fireworks in the evening and a ball in the Assembly Rooms on the second day.

In the early years, as many as nine boats used to race from Prebends Bridge to Pelaw Wood and back to the start line.