DURHAM University rowers triumphed over their Newcastle rivals for the sixth year in a row at the weekend.

Durham took the overall trophy in the Northumbrian Water University Boat Race.

Honours in the men's and women's races also went to Durham, but Newcastle's freshers put in a strong performance in the first race of the event to prevent a Durham hat-trick, winning by three-and-a-half lengths.

More than 8,000 people lined the banks of the River Tyne for the inter-varsity contest, which for the first time featured the Gateshead "blinking eye'' Millennium Bridge.

Both the new bridge and Newcastle Swing Bridge were opened for the men's race. The most convincing win of Saturday afternoon belonged to Durham's women's crew, who reversed last year's defeat in fine style, winning by six lengths.

Durham retained their stronghold on the men's race title with a four-length victory.

The chairman of the boat race executive committee, Graham Rayner, said: "Once again, the Northumbrian Water University Boat Race provided a magnificent day's sporting entertainment with high-quality performances from all of the crews.

"The Durham men's and women's VIIIs were particularly impressive.

"However, the convincing win by Newcastle's freshers means that Durham might have a fight on their hands to retain the title next year."

Mr Rayner added: "We're delighted to have had the added elements of the Millennium Bridge and Gateshead Quayside this year, which resulted in a significant increase in the numbers of spectators at the event.