The excitement and anticipation is continuing to build as the premier Tall Ships arrived in Hartlepool Marina. Graeme Hetherington sailed out to meet some of the ships as they reached their destination.

POOR weather conditions had played havoc for the ships crossing from Kristiansand, in Norway, but the vast majority of the vessels are now in dock.

And strong winds and choppy seas greeted the latest arrivals, and watching the Russian ship Mir come over the horizon was a sight to behold.

Unfortunately, the conditions meant it was impossible to get alongside the 300ft-long training vessel while it was in full sail.

However, Shaun Houghton- Birrell, the skipper of the Adventure, a three-masted Tall Ship based in Hartlepool, battled through the waves to get the press pack as close as possible as the ship was guided into the marina by two tugs.

Sightseers are already gathering at Hartlepool marina to soak up the atmosphere, and when the event officially The excitement and anticipation is continuing to build as the premier Tall Ships arrived in Hartlepool Marina. Graeme Hetherington sailed out to meet some of the ships as they reached their destination starts today, organisers are expecting bumper crowds.

Paul Bishop, the race director of event organiser Sail Training International, said the Tall Ships captains and crew had received a tremendous welcome. Almost 50 Tall Ships arrived yesterday, with more expected this morning bringing the total to 58.

Mr Bishop said: “The captains and crews have received a tremendous welcome in Hartlepool. Some of these vessels have sailed from as far away as Russia and Indonesia and it means so much to them when they get a warm welcome like they have had in Hartlepool.

“Clearly, people in Hartlepool are going the extra mile and I think we are in for a great time here.”

Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond said: “We are putting the finishing touches together for the first official day. A lot of people have worked really hard to make the event a success and put Hartlepool and the North- East firmly on the map.”

The event website is at hartlepooltallships2010.com or call 01429-523636.

WHAT’S ON

● 10am to 7pm today.

Community carnival on Hartlepool Headland.

● 4pm tomorrow.

Prizegiving ceremony for crews.

● 10.10pm tomorrow.

Music from Ocean Colour Scene on the Tall Ships Village main stage.

● Lunchtime Tuesday. Fleet leaves.