ONE OF the North-East's oldest breweries is the first to join a new business venture by the charity HMS Trincomalee Trust.

The UK's oldest ship, moored at Jackson Dock, Hartlepool, is to be opened for functions, receptions and presentations.

Camerons Brewery, which was established in Hartlepool in 1865 at a time when HMS Trincomalee was moored at the town's Union Dock as a training ship, has joined the ship's trust to take part in the initiative.

Bryn Hughes, general manager of the HMS Trincomalee Trust, said: "It is highly appropriate and most welcome that Camerons is the first to be involved in the scheme.

"The company has been an important employer in the town since the early days and both of us are now looking to enhance our presence in Hartlepool."

The Packets for Business scheme, available to clients at three different standards represented by traditional seafaring materials - hemp, copper and teak - is designed to use the ship's setting for business functions.

Mr Hughes said: "HMS Trincomalee is the last of Nelson's frigates and the oldest ship afloat in the UK today.

"It is encouraging that this historic maritime artefact is able to generate partnerships with local business for the promotion of Hartlepool and the region."