A FREAK storm swept across the region on Sunday as much of Britain baked in sizzling summer sun.

Vessels which had headed out from ports along the coast in the early morning sunshine sent out SOS calls when they got in difficulty just before 11am. They had set out after the weather forecast suggested that any storms would not strike until later in the day.

All six lifeboats were launched from Redcar, Staithes, Teesmouth and Hartlepool within minutes of each other after receiving seven mayday alerts.

Dave Cammish, of Redcar Lifeboat, said: "I have never seen the likes of this before. To have six lifeboats out is something quite exceptional."

Cleveland Fire Brigade received 400 calls in three hours from people who needed help to cope with floods. Cancelled events included, for the second year running, The Northern Echo Family Fun Day at Redcar racecourse where 29mm of rain fell in 20 minutes.

John Gundill, manager of Redcar Races, said: "Some members of the public did turn up but I think the fact the bad weather was widespread across the region kept a lot of people away. The gates were kept closed and none of the organised events were able to go ahead."

Loftus runners were among more than 850 competitors who managed to complete Darlington's annual road run despite the weather. John Hunter of Loftus Athletic Club was third with a finishing time of 32.53 and the male winning team was Loftus AC.