Thousands of spectators lined the banks of the River Wear at the weekend as the sun shone on one of the country's oldest rowing festivals.

More than 250 crews took part in races during the 170th Durham Regatta.

An added attraction was an array of vintage vehicles in the Racecourse fields, adjacent to the river.

Two local crews fought out the blue riband event, the 150th running of the Grand Challenge Cup, for fours.

Durham University's quartet just edged out the crew from Durham St Leonard's School in the final.

Races were staged every two minutes for nine hours during the two-day regatta, before the winning crews received their awards during a presentation ceremony at Durham Town Hall.

Durham Mayor Councillor Mary Hawgood and representatives of main sponsor Chase Bar presented the trophies.

Regatta vice-president Frank Humphries presented the Grand Challenge Cup, while a special award was made to long-standing regatta supporter, former secretary Malcolm Proud.

Guest commentator for the Grand Challenge Cup yesterday was Claire Shavrin, daughter of Durham University's long-time rowing stalwart, the late Eric Halladay.

* The 29th Allcomers Regatta for novice rowers will be held on Saturday, June 26.

The event is open to crews of four rowers and a cox, with only one experienced rower permitted per boat.

Previous Allcomers winners cannot take part, but losers from past events are welcome.

Durham Amateur Rowing club is allowing its facilities to be used for up to five free practice sessions per crew before racing on the river.

There is an entry fee of £30 per crew, which must be made to Clive Hole, at the City Boathouse, Green Lane, Durham, by Saturday.

For details contact Mr Hole, on 0191-386 6431.