Boat missing in Tall Ships race

It was last heard from on Saturday morning. Photo: Sail Training International

Concerns are growing for one of the vessels taking part in the Tall Ships Race from Newcastle to Norway.

The Smialy, a Polish boat taking part in the Class C section, is supposed to call in at regular intervals but it has missed its last four reports.

Race organisers Sail Training International said they were in contact with all the relevant coastguards to try to find the ship.

Severe weather conditions have forced more than half the vessels to drop out.

The Smialy was last heard from early on Saturday morning.

The ships set off from Newcastle and Gateshead quaysides on Thursday and the first have already arrived in Norway.

More than 100 ships set out in full sail but on Monday morning, only 41 remained in the race.

Some of the ships were forced to retire due to crew sea sickness while others faced a broken mast and gearbox problems.

But most of those who have retired are continuing their journey to Fredrikstad for the celebrations on Wednesday.