THE TALL SHIPS RACES 2010

 

Iskra ORP

"Iskra ORP" photograph © Dr. Allan Ryszka-Onions.

Preparations for the Tall Ships Races 2010 in Hartlepool have been boosted by the news that 60 ships have now signed up for the spectacular event.

The latest vessels to confirm are the "Iskra ORP" from Poland, one of the larger Class A ships, and the "Faramir" from the UK and the "Zenobe Gramme" from Belgium, both smaller Class C vessels.

Michelle Daurat, Tall Ships Project Manager with Hartlepool Council, said: “The fact that more and more ships are signing up to take part is the best possible endorsement for the event.

“We are delighted that so many ships have confirmed their involvement at this stage, and we are confident that more will follow.”

Hartlepool expects to welcome up to one million visitors for the finale of the prestigious Tall Ships Races 2010.

The ships are due to arrive in the town on Saturday, August 7th after sailing from Kristiansand in Norway and the second and final race of the event. They will stay until Tuesday, August 10th when they will bid a grand farewell in an impressive Parade of Sail.

Hartlepool Borough Council has teamed up with PD  Ports and Hartlepool Marina to organise the event.

The larger Class A and B vessels will be berthed in Victoria Harbour at PD Ports, while the smaller ships will be in Hartlepool Marina.

For further information about the event or tall ships generally contact the Hartlepool Tall Ships Office on (01429) 523636 or e-mail tallships@hartlepool.gov.uk To Keep up to date with the list of registered ships visit the official Tall Ships website.