THE business community in Hartlepool has started planning for the arrival of the Tall Ships Race 2010.

visitTeesvalley, the Area Tourism Partnership, held its annual Autumn Conference this week with over 90 delegates attending.

The event included a host of speakers such as internationally renowned marketing specialist, Geoff Ramm who delivered an inspirational and motivational speech on how businesses can make the most of this once in a life time opportunity.

Hartlepool tourism officer Jo Cole spoke about all the behind the scenes activity in preparation for the races and Phil Payne, head of corporate services at NewcastleGateshead Initiative presented a summary on the success of the 2005 Newcastle Tall Ships.

Bryn Hughes, general manager of Hartlepool's Maritime Experience, said: "The tourism industry is definitely a growing market and with the area's recent success at this year's Tourism Awards we're now being recognised both on a regional and national level.

Krimo Bouabda, owner Cream Restaurants in the town, added: "The Tall Ships Races is bringing such a fantastic opportunity to local tourism businesses and will certainly put us on the national and international map."