EVENTS will take place throughout the region this month to mark the birthday of Captain James Cook.

A week-long celebration of the region's links with the 18th Century seafarer start on Monday, October 21, with events from Hartlepool to Whitby.

Youngsters in Great Ayton, North Yorkshire, will mark the 274th anniversary with a "parade of sail" along the River Leven, on Wednesday, October 23. Last year, there were more than 50 boats, built by children and their parents.

To join the parade, people should arrive with their boats at 9.45am ready for the first race. There are prizes for the best vessels.