THE marina in Hartlepool has received a further boost after it was announced that it would act as a trading point to sell North-East built yachts.

The steel-hulled vessels will be built by South Shields marine design and engineering specialists Wilstream Yachts.

The yachts range from 40ft to 54ft in length and are based on the latest thoroughbred designs from the internationally renowned boat designer Bruce Roberts.

Seafarers will be able to view and purchase the yachts from the Hartlepool Marina where they can choose from a flat-pack kit to a fully fitted customised yacht.

Later this year, the yachts will be exhibited at the Southampton International Boat Show in the hope that worldwide orders can be secured.

Councillor Carl Richardson, chairman of Hartlepool Borough Council, unveiled one of the yachts on Saturday.

He said: "This is excellent news. The presence of these yachts in Hartlepool will help to further establish the Marina as a yachting centre for seagoing enthusiasts.

"It will also give the town good profile and help to remind people of the excellent facilities at the marina."

Allan Henderson, director of Hartlepool Marina, said that the yachts are already attracting a lot of interest.

He said: "At the launch on Saturday, we had potential customers from London and other parts of the UK.

"We are also looking to tap into the Dutch market because we know they prefer steel-hulled boats.