THE Tall Ships Regatta was in full swing under brilliant blue skies today (Friday, August 27).

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to attend the event, which features about 30 of the finest vessels in the world on show at the Port of Blyth until Monday.

Northumberland County Council, which has jointly organised the event, estimates the North-East economy could benefit by as much as £13m.

The majority of the ships will set off on Monday to race to Gothenburg in Sweden.

Entry to the event is free, although there are charges for some activities, and many of the ships will be open to members of the public.