THE North’s premier regatta has announced a charity partner.

This year’s Durham Regatta will support Row2Recovery, which works with wounded armed forces personnel.

The Regatta will raise money for the cause and provide an opportunity for the charity to promote itself.

This year’s event will be extra special as organisers mark the bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo, the event which inspired the first official Durham Regatta in 1834.

Anyone who can prove they are descended from one of 43 veterans of the Napoleonic battle, known as the Waterloo Men, who were treated to a free meal and drinks at that event, will be offered free drinks and VIP treatment at this year’s – scheduled for June 13 and 14.

Durham Regatta chairman Nigel van Zwanenberg said: “Durham Regatta has been closely associated with the Battle of Waterloo throughout its history.

“So Row2Recovery, a charity that combines the armed forces with rowing, was the obvious choice.”

Paddy Nicoll, from the charity, said it was honoured to be chosen.

As well as racing on the River Wear, the regatta will feature re-enactments of 19th century races, a vintage vehicle rally, live music and children’s entertainment.

For more information, visit durham-regatta.org.uk.