DEMONSTRATIONS of skill and daring by lifeboat crews at a quayside fete had to be cut short by a real life drama yesterday.

The men and women of the RNLI were preparing for a raft race around the dock at Hartlepool Harbour Fete, on the town's marina, when an emergency call was received.

However, reports that a yacht had released a flare came to nothing and lifeboat crew put the call down as a possible hoax.

Organisers said the drama was a mere blip on a highly successful fete that up to 10,000 people attended - with the famous bird man competition attracting big crowds.

"This year was special because it is 200 years since the lifeboat first came to Hartlepool," said organiser Malcolm Cook, chairman of the station management committee.

"We decided to have a two-day event and I'm happy to say the public came out once again and gave us great support.

"The bird man competition is always a favourite. The idea is for someone to fly right across the dock.

"Nobody's ever done it and they didn't this year because the slightly adverse weather. The main thing was everyone enjoyed it."

Demonstrations included a drunken sailor rescue, a Battle of Britain flight featuring Spitfires, waterski demonstrations and a fly-past by a search and rescue helicopter.

Other highlights included musical concerts and Saltburn Victorian Society members dressed in period costume.

Youngsters also enjoyed trips on Little Dennis, a mini fire engine provided by Hartlepool Fire Station.

The event is expected to raise a substantial amount of money for Hartlepool lifeboat service.