YOUNG landlubbers, preparing to sail away on an unforgettable voyage, met their potential ship-mates for the first time, at a get-to-know-you event.

More than 100 youngsters from across the North-East have been selected to join the crews of some of the vessels taking part in this year's Tall Ships' Race.

The trainee sailors, recruited through funding from project sponsors Northumbrian Water and the Grainger Trust, will sail on some of the world's largest tall ships on the leg of the race from Cherbourg in France to Newcastle, in July.

They were given an insight into what to expect at an open evening at Newcastle Civic Centre.

As part of the event, they were given a glimpse of life on the high seas in a film produced by Sail Training International, and heard of some of the experiences of previous Tall Ships' Race competitors.

Tall Ships manager Phil Payne said: "The purpose of the evening was to give the young people chosen for the race a flavour of what to expect.

"We're supporting 100 young trainees from the region on what should be the voyage of a lifetime, where they will get to experience life at sea, as well as develop new friendships and skills."

Tall Ships Youth Trust spokesman John Simmons told the young audience: "The Tall Ships is one of those experiences you will remember for the rest of your life.

"You will make great friends, learn all about sailing and life at sea, as well as have a fantastic time."

The Tall Ships' Race is in port on the River Tyne from July 25 to 28.