HARTLEPOOL PREPARES TO HOST TALL SHIPS RACES 2010

Wednesday, 12th September 2007

Work is forging ahead as Hartlepool and the Tees Valley prepare to host The Tall Ships'Races in 2010. Hartlepool Quays is expected to host around 100 tall ships between 7-10 August after they have sailed from Kristiansand in Norway on the second and final leg of the race.

The five workstreams established to focus on different aspects of the event have all now met and actions are already being implemented. One of the key workstreams - Visitor information/Marketing/Promotion/Accommodation - is chaired by visitTeesvalley's Julia Frater and also has representatives from the business community.

Already Tall Ships has triggered a major revival in the Hartlepool hotel scene. Tavistock LeisureLtd - the new owner of the Grand Hotel - is spending £2.5m to restore the 47-bedroom property to its former glory.

Managing Director Mark Hird said: "There is so much happening in Hartlepool that it seems a perfect place for us, particularly with events like The Tall Ships' Races in 2010."

New life is also being breathed into hotels at Seaton Carew and there are plans for a 4-star 150 bedroom hotel at Hartlepool Marina.

ENDS

For more information, contact The Tall Ships Office on 01429 523420.

Alastair Rae
Public Relations Officer

Tel: 01429 523510
Fax: 01429 523355
Email: alastair.rae@hartlepool.gov.uk
website: www.hartlepool.gov.uk