THE Princess Royal will be at the World Canoe Marathon championships in Stockton next week.

Princess Anne, who is patron of the challenge, praised the event to be held on the River Tees.

In a special statement she said: "I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all the competitors, officials, supporters, organisers and spectators involved in this year's canoe marathon.

"Last year's World Cup saw many of the world's leading competitors testing themselves on the Stockton course in the run-up to the Olympic Games."

The Princess Royal will attend the opening ceremony next Friday, with the championships running from Thursday to Sunday, September 2.

Stockton council's sports development officer Debbie Curgenven said: "This is a wonderful boost for the sport.

"We are looking forward to the event which will cover a weekend of spectacular races as well as planned entertainment for the whole family."

World championship events run through the whole weekend and there will be plenty of chances for people to try their hand at paddling and canoeing events.

Entertainment will be provided at the Durham University Stockton campus to create a carnival atmosphere throughout with live music, craft fairs and Cleveland band The Wildcats of Kilkenny on stage from noon to 1pm on Saturday, September 1.

The championships are being supported by UK Sport, Stockton council, British Waterways and other sponsors.