Attendees could be seen enjoying the third day of the Tall Ships which has returned to the a North East town after more than a decade away.

Event-goers could be seen taking in musical performances and shows across Hartlepool Marina as Tall Ships entered its third day (July 8).

Many gathered at and around Navigation Point Stage, enjoying a bite to eat and a drink in the hot summer sun while bands entertained them on stage.

The Tall Ships Races will commence tomorrow (July 9), beginning with the Parade of Sails taking place between 1-3pm, and concluding with the ships departing at 4pm.

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Speaking yesterday, Fay Armstrong described the event as "absolutely brilliant”.

She added: “They were singing and playing the band on one of the ships, and it was beautiful. Really not to be missed - it's wonderful.

"I would like to be here when they sail out, but it will be too packed."

When asked how it compared to the last Tall Ships event in Hartlepool, she said it was "better” than previous years.

Cllr Shane Moore was equally delighted with the nautical procession. He said: "We're here today celebrating the Tall Ships event, and welcoming people to Hartlepool.

"It is the first time we've hosted this event since 2010, we're really excited to welcome everybody back.

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"So far, it has gone absolutely brilliantly, we're seeing so many smiling faces, people from all around the world, not just the UK."

"It's lovely to see people enjoying themselves and to see the town alive like this as well."

Here are some of the pictures from the day:

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