A FLEET of taxis is embracing the 2018 Tall Ships Races when it is part-staged in the company’s home city.

New vehicle artwork is appearing on cabs operated by Station Taxis in Sunderland in support of the major maritime festival, which begins on the River Wear, next summer.

Eighty tall ships are expected to berth at the Port of Sunderland next July.

The vessels and their crews will stay for a four-day festival before taking part in a spectacular Parade of Sail along the city’s coastline prior to the first race of the 2018 series, to Esbjerg, in Denmark.

It is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the city, bringing a multi-million pound boost to the local economy.

The taxi firm’s gesture was welcomed by Councillor John Kelly, Sunderland City Council’s cabinet member for culture, who said: “This latest initiative is helping spread the word about what is sure to be one of the largest events Sunderland has ever hosted.

“It will provide local business with a huge range of opportunities, from sponsoring a sail trainee or hosting a corporate event on the deck of one of these magnificent ships to event promotion, there is something for businesses of all sizes.

“It is fantastic to see so many businesses already pledging their support and I urge the rest of the business community to join with them to help make this a truly spectacular occasion.”

Among other commercial concerns showing their support are, Gentoo, The Bridges Sunderland and the Port of Sunderland.