Teams prepare for clash of oars

Durham University has never been defeated in the event

Crowds are expected to line the banks of the Tyne as teams of rowers take to the water.

Teams from Newcastle and Durham will be battling it out in the ninth annual Northumbrian Water University Boat Race on Sunday afternoon.

Newcastle will be hoping to release Durham's stranglehold on the event.

There will be a programme of entertainment on the river starting at 1430 BST with the rowing events starting at 1630 BST.

Northumbrian Water director of communications Alistair Baker said: "I am continually impressed with the dedication and enthusiasm of the rowers who consistently make the Northumbrian Water Boat Race a really great spectacle.

"We are very proud of our long association with the Boat Race.

"It provides an excellent opportunity for us to showcase the benefits of our investment in the River Tyne clean-up and its environment, which has been fundamental to the success of the event."