Events in Wearside

Durham Regatta in its current form dates back to 1834, when only a handful of trophies were competed for over a period of three days.

Today, the Regatta is held over just two days but dozens of trophies can be won and there are over 500 races for anyone who'd like to try.

It is a favourite with Durham University, Durham School and Durham Amateur Rowing Club, who have competed regularly since the early days.

St Aidan's represents Durham University

Last year 12,000 spectators came to cheer on the crews and soak up the atmosphere if, hopefully, not the River Wear.

Prestigious event

The Regatta holds pride of place in the North of England and attracts a high level of competition, both at national and international level.

Phil Tully, the Captain of Durham Rowing Club, says: "All the crews at the Durham Rowing Club have been training flat out and have every intention of doing well for our region.

"Our crews are made up of teachers, plumbers, gardeners, office workers, painters and the like and they train two or three times a week.

Junior four takes to the river

"They train after work or at weekends and are determined to beat their opposition."

University rivals

Durham University and Newcastle University are, as you might expect, rivals in this rowing extravaganza. But, whichever beats the other, they have to uphold their high national standing and prevent visiting universities taking the prizes.

There is added top-flight competition from Europe. A number of Dutch, German and Norwegian crews hope to test their mettle prior to Henley Royal Regatta.

The Dutch hope to lift the top trophy, the Grand Challenge Cup, and local crews will be fired up to beat them.

Ladies Veteran coxless four at the start in 2007

They are entering the senior events and intend to use Durham Regatta to become racing fit for Henley in July.

Want to row?

In a world where 'amateurs' can still be pretty accomplished, there are still options for the less experienced.

The Durham Amateur Rowing Club is inviting entries for its 2008 'All-comers Regatta', to be held on Saturday 28 June 2008.

This event is specifically designed for those who have never rowed before.

Crews of four, plus a cox, are entitled to four practice sessions aiming to race in restricted fours over a 300 metre stretch of the River Wear.

Why not enter a team from your work or home?

Durham amateur rowing club crew on the Wear

Not just messing about on the water

The weekend's entertainment in Durham isn't restricted to the water. There will be food and drink stalls, dog displays, wood carving, steel bands and more.

The Illuminate Festival is being held at the same time, so watch out for street theatre, a parade and fireworks on Saturday evening.

The inaugural Durham Arts Festival also starts at the weekend.

Durham Regatta Events Co-ordinator, Mark Bell, says: "Durham Regatta is already the north's premier rowing event but we have been keen to help the Regatta develop into a true family occasion.

"The extra attractions during the regatta weekend and Illuminate have helped us offer more to the public and we look forward to seeing the event grow year on year."