THE James Cook set sail yesterday for the first leg of the Tall Ships' Race 2004, with 12 young people from the North-East on board.

Those who impress the permanent crew could be back on board next year helping to train other youngsters when the ship takes part in next year's Newcastle-Gateshead race, on the Tyne.

The James Cook is one of the first vessels to express an interest in signing up for the Newcastle-Gateshead event.

Phil Payne, Newcastle City Council's Tall Ships manager, said: "The Tall Ships' Race is all about offering young people a life-changing experience and creating a lasting sail training legacy. It would be great to welcome back some of the sailors taking part this year, as watch leaders in 2005."

The 70ft 12-berth yacht, built as a sail training vessel and considered one of the best in the UK, was in dry dock for repairs at Swan Hunter earlier this year, but returned to the Tyne a week later.

The James Cook was built on Tyneside in 1986, funded by donations from local people and businesses.

For information about the James Cook, visit the website www.oyt-ne.org.uk