Members of the Jackson County 4-H Intermediate Livestock Judging team that took first place at the Minnesota State Fair are Parker Benda (from left), Nathaniel Post, Isaac Ihnen and Jordann Schneekloth. (Submitted photo)
Members of the Jackson County 4-H Senior Livestock Judging team that took first place at the Minnesota State Fair are Joshua Albrecht (from left), Jon Handzus, Bailey Schneekloth and Ethan Varilek. (Submitted photo)
FALCON HEIGHTS -- It was a clean sweep for Jackson County youths exhibiting in the 4-H Swine Show Friday at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights.
For the first time in state fair’s 4-H history in honoring three separate swine categories, Jackson County is home to the grand champion market barrow, the grand champion breeding gilt and the grand champion market gilt.
Exhibiting the purple ribbon winning pigs were Madelyn Vancura (market barrow), Katherin Ihnen (breeding gilt) and Jadi Koep (market gilt).
Jackson County also saw its intermediate and senior 4-H Livestock Judging teams take top honors. There were 14 intermediate teams in the contest. Jackson Team 1 members included Isaac Ihnen (second individually), Jordann Schneekloth (fifth), Nathaniel Post (seventh) and Parker Benda. A second intermediate team from Jackson County took fourth place overall. Team members included Julia Dykstra (sixth individually), Will Freking, Sophia Lovell and Braden Yonker.
The first-place senior team from Jackson County 4-H included members Joshua Ulbricht (first individually), Jon Handzus (second), Bailey Schneekloth and Ethan Varilek. Jackson County Senior Team #2 was comprised of Austin Yonker (10th individually), Ali Eckert, Ben Freking, Carter Johnson and Logan More.
The 2016 Minnesota State Fair opened Thursday with the 4-H livestock encampment. Over the course of four days, exhibitors and their animals competed for ribbons and showmanship.
Southwest Minnesota was well represented with 4-H youths earning trips to compete at the state fair after exhibiting in their county fair.
Following is a list of results from the livestock encampment by county.
Cottonwood County
Beef: Hallie Will, registered Hereford junior yearling, blue. Brady Rasmussen, foundation Simmental junior yearling, blue. Cole Grant, commercial cow/calf, red. Ramsey Piotter, steer calf, blue. Sydney Pankonin, registered Hereford steer, blue. Spencer Wolter, registered Hereford steer, red. Emily Sell, market heifer, blue.
Dairy Goat: Ariel Simon, unrecorded grade senior doe kid, blue; showmanship, blue.
Meat Goat: Thomas Sell, champion mediumweight meat market goat, champion overall meat market goat, reserve champion senior market goat showmanship.
Poultry: Carlee Sell, market pen chickens, purple; intermediate showmanship winner. Owen Grant, market pen chickens, blue. Samuel Dammann, breeding pen geese, blue.
Rabbit: Damian King, Mini Rex senior doe, red.
Sheep: Matthew Wiebe, black face market lamb, champion market lamb intermediate division showperson, reserve champion heavyweight market lamb. Megan Wiebe, black face market lamb, champion market lamb senior division showperson, reserve champion middleweight market lamb. Mikaela Smith, champion white face market lamb. Dominik Smith, black face market lamb, purple. Melanie Adrian, black face market lamb, purple. Bryce Adrian, black face market lamb, purple. Hunter Dahna, white face market lamb, purple. Delaney Smith, black face ewe lamb, purple.
Swine: Jackson Roll, champion purebred breeding gilt, champion Yorkshire gilt, reserve grand champion breeding gilt. Dalton Piotter, registered Other breeds breeding gilt, blue. Tayler Franz, registered Spot market barrow, champion Spot barrow. Ryan Franz, crossbred market barrow, purple, champion market barrow senior division showperson. Brittany Erickson, crossbred market barrow, reserve champion middleweight barrow. Nautica Weis, crossbred market barrow, red. Cole Jackson, crossbred market barrow, blue. Tommy Lindstrom, crossbred market barrow, purple. Bianca Weis, registered market gilt all breeds, purple. Madison Dahna, registered market gilt all breeds, purple.
Jackson County
Beef: Riley Johnson, registered Shorthorn Plus junior yearling, champion Shorthorn Plus heifer. Braden Yonker, registered Maine Anjou junior yearling, red. Austin Yonker, commercial junior yearling, purple. Maggie Post, purebred registered Simmental junior yearling, blue. Marcus Hinkeldey, registered Red Angus cow-calf, blue. Grace Kilian, prospect steer calf, red. Ryan Kilian, prospect steer calf, blue. Cole Lusk, crossbreds and other breeds beef steer, champion division 1 crossbred steer. Gavin Mulder, crossbreds and other breeds beef steer, champion division 3 crossbred steer, reserve grand champion market beef. Ethan Varilek, registered Shorthorn Plus beef steer, purple. Ben Freking, registered Charolais beef steer, blue. Scott Christopher, crossbreds and other breeds beef steer, purple. Ali Eckert, crossbreds and other breeds beef steer, blue.
Dairy: Isaac Hedstrom, crossbred and other breeds calf, blue. Ryan Hinkeldey, grade Holstein 2-year-old, red.
Meat Goat: Zoe Pohlman, meat market goat wether, reserve champion heavyweight meat market goat. Emma Pohlman, meat market goat wether, blue. Tyler Raverty, junior meat breeding doe, blue. Carter Johnson, senior meat breeding doe, blue.
Poultry: Garrhet Kellner, breeding pen chickens, blue. Mason Wedebrand, breeding pen chickens, blue; intermediate showmanship winner. Michaela Kellner, Bantam breeding pen chickens, purple; advanced showmanship winner.
Rabbit: Wyatt Ignaszewski, Flemish Giant senior doe, blue. Ashley Wagner, Jersey Wooly senior buck, blue.
Sheep: Carson Schneekloth, black face market lamb, purple. Kailey Koep, black face market lamb, purple. Meta Tewes, black face market lamb, blue. Bailey Schneekloth, black face market lamb, purple. Ryan Christopher, black face market lamb, purple. Jordann Schneekloth, black face market lamb, purple. Trace Michelson, white face market lamb, purple. Parker Benda, champion registered Suffolk yearling ewe, Supreme Champion breeding ewe. Faith Kazemba, registered Southdown ewe lamb, blue. Stephanie Kazemba, black face ewe lamb, purple. Christian Kazemba, white and speckle face yearling ewe, blue.
Swine: Katherin Ihnen, champion crossbred gilt, grand champion breeding gilt, reserve champion breeding gilt advanced showperson. Zachary Bargfrede, registered Duroc market barrow, purple. Zachary Rasmussen, registered Hampshire market barrow, blue. Taylor Post, registered Yorkshire market barrow, reserve champion Yorkshire barrow. Madelyn Vancura, crossbred market barrow, champion lightweight barrow, grand champion market barrow. Dominic Bargfrede, crossbred market barrow, purple. Bryn Anderson, crossbred market barrow, purple. Tucker Elder, crossbred market barrow, blue. Kie Anderson, crossbred market barrow, blue. Dalton Dykstra, crossbred market barrow, purple, reserve champion market barrow senior division showperson. Sophia Lovell, crossbred market barrow, blue. Julia Dykstra, crossbred market barrow, blue. Joshua Ulbricht, crossbred market barrow, purple, champion market barrow advanced division showperson. Brandon Hinkeldey, crossbred market barrow, blue. Jazmin Voehl, crossbred market barrow, blue. Michaela Vancura, crossbred market barrow, purple. Rudy Voss, crossbred market barrow, purple, reserve champion heavyweight barrow. Isaac Ihnen, registered market gilt all breeds, purple, champion market gilt intermediate showperson. Jadi Koep, registered market gilt all breeds, purple, champion market gilt senior division showperson, grand champion market gilt. Nathaniel Post, registered market gilt all breeds, purple. Alyssa Post, registered market gilt all breeds, purple. William Freking, registered market gilt all breeds, purple.
Murray County
Beef: Thad Gunnink, commercial spring calf, blue. Kylie Samuelson, registered Shorthorn fall calf, blue. Sophie Larson, registered Shorthorn junior yearling, blue. Rachel Bruxvoort, purebred registered Simmental spring calf, blue. Camdyn Kluis, prospect heifer calf, reserve champion prospect heifer calf. Amber Breuker, prospect heifer calf, blue. Mckenna Samuelson, prospect heifer calf, blue. Nicholas Ankrum, prospect steer calf, purple. Lauren Verlinde, crossbreds and other breeds market steer, champion division 3 crossbred steer. Hayden Ankrum, registered Simmental beef steer, blue. Megan Surprenant, registered Shorthorn Plus, blue. Jarred Jans, market heifer, blue.
Dairy: Regan Davis, crossbred and other breeds calf, blue. Jake Post, grade Holstein 3-year-old cow, blue. Hannah Wichmann, grade Holstein winter calf, blue. Jett Davis, grade Holstein spring junior yearling, blue.
Dairy Goat: Cameron Boerboom, purebred or American Nubian milking yearling doe, blue; showmanship, blue.
Meat Goat: McKenna Schreier, meat market heavyweight wether, blue. Matthew Mouw, senior meat breeding doe registered or grade, blue.
Sheep: Hannah Herrig, intermediate lamb lead, blue; reserve champion registered Southdown ewe lamb. Vanessa Herrig, senior lamb lead, blue; registered Southdown ewe lamb, purple; champion breeding ewe senior division showperson. Kennedy Jackels, black face market lamb, blue. Danielle Hoekman, black face market lamb, blue. Kailey Wixon, black face market lamb, blue. Macy Posthuma, black face market lamb, blue. Emma Wehking, black face market lamb, red. Samantha Larson, black face market lamb, blue. Larissa Hoekman, black face market lamb, blue.
Swine: Hunnter Bloch, crossbred breeding gilt, purple; champion intermediate breeding gilt showperson. Trent Kramer, registered Yorkshire breeding gilt, purple. Mckenzie Evers, crossbred breeding gilt, purple. Taryn Evers, crossbred breeding gilt, purple. Rebecca Surprenant, registered Yorkshire market barrow, red. Justin Dierks, crossbred market barrow, red.
Nobles County
Beef: Emmett Bickett, commercial spring calf, purple. Landon Rogers, commercial spring calf, red. Kalvin Ross, commercial junior yearling, purple. Brynn Bullerman, registered Black Angus spring calf, purple. Mackenzie Wagner, registered Black Angus junior yearling, blue. Taylor Ponto, registered Shorthorn Plus junior yearling, red. Marshall Wagner, reserve champion Black Angus cow/calf pair. Cole Weidert, prospect heifer calf, purple. Madison Cummings, prospect heifer calf, purple. Kennedy Cummings, prospect heifer calf, blue. Shawna Rogers, prospect steer calf, red. Christopher Christians, prospect steer calf, blue. Christian Weidert, prospect steer calf, blue. Camryn Baumhoefner, market steer, purple. Chad Buntjer, purebred dairy steer, red. Paige Madison, purebred dairy steer, red.
Dairy: Carl Dykstra, Holstein grade fall calf, blue. Karen Dykstra, Holstein grade fall calf, red.
Meat Goat: Cody Gravenhof, middleweight meat market goat wether, blue. Madison Schaefer, middleweight meat market goat female, purple.
Rabbit: Kasey Solma, Mini Lop senior buck, blue. Hannah Henning, Netherland Dwarf senior doe, blue.
Sheep: Cody Frodermann, black face market lamb, blue. Christian Goedtke, black face market lamb, blue. Christine Frodermann, black face ewe lamb, blue. Corrine Frodermann, black face ewe lamb, blue.
Swine: Kaylee Lehrke, registered Yorkshire breeding gilt, purple. Eric Lehrke, crossbred breeding gilt, purple. Trace Solt, crossbred breeding gilt, blue. Cheyenna John, crossbred breeding gilt, blue. Kendrick Bickett, registered Yorkshire market barrow, blue. Devin Frodermann, crossbred market barrow, white. Leighton Gehl, crossbred market barrow, red. Kendra Frodermann, crossbred market barrow, white. Desmond Bixby, registered market gilt all breeds, blue. Khloe Gehl, registered market gilt all breeds, blue.
Pipestone County
Beef: Adam Bierstedt, registered Shorthorn Plus junior yearling, reserve champion Shorthorn Plus heifer. Dawson Johnson, registered Red Angus junior yearling, reserve champion Red Angus heifer. Shantel Raatz, purebred registered Simmental junior yearling, reserve champion Simmental heifer. Brooklyn Hiniker, registered Maine Anjou junior yearling, purple. Isaac Berg, registered Red Angus junior yearling, purple. Morgan Moeller, registered Red Angus junior yearling, blue. Jared Carlson, registered Black Angus junior yearling, blue. Wesly Johnson, registered Black Angus junior yearling, purple. Marli Taubert, registered Black Angus junior yearling, blue. Jordan Weinkauf, registered Black Angus junior yearling, blue. Logan McGunegill, registered Charolais junior yearling, blue. Tyler DeGroot, registered Shorthorn summer yearling, purple. Shayna DeGroot, registered Shorthorn and Shorthorn Plus cow-calf, purple; champion Shorthorn cow-calf pair. Colton Raatz, commercial cow-calf, blue. Tucker DeGroot, prospect steer calf, blue. Kendra Folkerts, registered Hereford steer, blue. Tyenna Muller, registered Charolais steer, blue. Hunter St. Aubin, crossbreds and other breeds steer, blue. DJ Scotting, crossbreds and other breeds steer, blue.
Dairy: Ian Vander Wal, Holstein grade 3-year-old cow, champion grade Holstein cow. Nakia Evans, registered Holstein winter calf, blue. Gavin Viland, registered Holstein winter calf, blue. Registered Holstein summer junior yearling, red. Amy Jo Vander Wal, registered Holstein winter senior yearling, purple.
Meat Goat: Eric Pietz, lightweight meat market wether, blue. Katie Scotting, senior meat breeding doe registered or grade, blue. Devin Pietz, meat dry breeding yearling registered or grade, blue.
Rabbit: John Ulik, Rex senior buck, blue.
Sheep: Kennedy Houghton, black face market lamb, blue. Erin Lueck, registered Hampshire ewe lamb, purple. Cole Lueck, reserve champion registered Hampshire ewe lamb. Nate Bobendrier, champion registered Hampshire ewe lamb. Samuel Bobendrier, registered Hampshire ewe lamb, purple. Mitchell Bobendrier, registered Hampshire ewe lamb, purple. Brady Bobendrier, registered Hampshire yearling ewe, purple.
Swine: Hannah Berg, reserve champion Duroc barrow. Jenna Kerkaert, crossbred market barrow, purple. Joshua Homann, crossbred market barrow, blue. Aubrey Kerkaert, crossbred market barrow, blue. Reid Homann, registered market gilt all breeds, blue. Brett Stueven, registered market gilt all breeds, blue. Wyatt Stueven, registered market gilt all breeds, blue.
Rock County
Beef: Thomas Norman, registered Chianina junior yearling, champion Chianina heifer. Justin Mente, registered Maine Anjou summer yearling, purple. Dylan Mente, commercial junior yearling, blue. Ryleigh Beers, registered Shorthorn Plus junior yearling, blue. Hannah Kruse, foundation Simmental fall calf, blue. Trevor Mente, purebred and foundation registered Simmental cow calf, blue. Michael Kinsinger, prospect heifer calf, blue. Drew Fick, prospect steer calf, red. Whitney Elbers, crossbreds and other breeds market steer, reserve champion division 1 crossbred steer. Tory Knobloch, reserve champion slick-shorn market steer. Jared Leuthold, market heifer, blue. Payton Fick, market heifer, purple. Sean Elbers, market steer, red. Dalton Pipkes, market steer, blue. Dawson Leenderts, market steer, blue.
Dairy: Andrew Raak, Guernsey registered and grade junior yearling, purple; champion total merit Guernsey heifer. Jacob Raak, Ayrshire registered and grade 3-year-old cow, blue; champion Ayrshire production. Joshua Raak, Milking Shorthorn calf, red.
Meat Goat: Cassie Flanagan, senior meat breeding doe registered or grade, blue. Moriah Flanagan, senior meat breeding doe registered or grade, blue. Breanna Richters, senior meat breeding doe registered or grade, blue.
Poultry: Grace Sandbulte, market chickens, blue.
Rabbit: Brooke Feit, Netherland Dwarf junior buck, blue. Hunter Sandbulte, other small breed purebreds senior buck, red. Michaella Sandbulte, other small breed purebreds senior doe, red.
Sheep: Riley Baker, champion speckled face market lamb. Christian Kruse, black face market lamb, blue. Trey Baustian, black face market lamb, champion lightweight market lamb, reserve grand champion market lamb. Payton Bork, black face market lamb, red. Mira Uithoven, white face market lamb, red. Adayla Rouzer, white face market lamb, blue. Hunter Baker, white and speckle face ewe lamb, purple.
Swine: Tacey Baustian, registered Spot breeding gilt, reserve champion. Aleck Schoeneman, crossbred market barrow, blue. William Stegenga, crossbred market barrow, blue. Trista Baustian, crossbred market barrow, red. Tyler Fick, registered market gilt all breeds, blue. Micah Stensland-Bos, registered market gilt all breeds, blue. Tanner Baustian, registered market gilt all breeds, purple.

Jackson County sweeps state 4-H swine show; results from 4-H livestock encampment


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FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. -- First it was an effort to keep agriculture runoff out of the state's waters by the use of plant buffers, then last week it was a restriction on the use of some pesticides.
Many of Minnesota's farmers and farm organizations are not happy with Gov. Mark Dayton, who began both efforts without what farmers say was adequate consultation. Many say they agree with Dayton's desire to clean up pollution and protect bees, but disagree with how he approaches agriculture-related issues.
"I thought we did involve the farmer," Dayton said at the Minnesota State Fair Tuesday when asked about farmers' complaints.
Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson, a Dayton appointee, said that a 15-member board will advise the administration on how to implement a governor's executive order aimed at reducing the use of pesticides that could hurt bees and other animals that pollinate crops.
The pesticide executive order produced strong reactions from some in farm country, especially House Republicans who Democrat Dayton said get upset with many things he does.
"Once again, instead of collaborating and partnering with farmers and agriculture stakeholders, Gov. Dayton has plowed ahead with his own plan and blindsided everyone in the ag community," said state House Agriculture Finance Chairman Rod Hamilton, R-Mountain Lake, usually one of the least partisan lawmakers. "While we all share a common concern for the health of our pollinators, it is extremely troublesome that when it comes to issues of agriculture, the governor continues to shut farmers out of the process and not engage stakeholders on critical agriculture issues."
An official of the Democratic-leaning Minnesota Farmers' Union was not as harsh, but said his organization also would like more say before farm-related orders are issued.
"We appreciate it when we can be at the table instead of being on the table," said Thom Petersen, Farmers' Union government relations director.
The pesticide controversy piled on top of the buffer issue for farmers, Peterson said. "I think he needs to continue to build a bridge. I think there is a little bit of fatigue out there with the buffer piece."
Petersen watched Tuesday as Dayton asked Minnesotans to pledge to work toward better water quality, including adding buffers between crops and water.
"There is a lot of confusion still, and a lot of things to be worked out," Petersen said about the buffer issue that has been debated for two years.
On the pesticide order, Rep. Deb Kiel, R-Crookston, disagreed with Dayton's "unilateral" executive order.
"This plan will add layers of bureaucracy to farming, an industry essential to the health of our state’s economy," she said.
The Minnesota Soybean Growers Association issued a statement saying Dayton mishandled the pesticide order.
"We are troubled the governor has politicized this issue and didn’t consult with affected producers," association President Theresia Gillie said.
Dayton said Republicans are trying to turn the water quality and pesticide issues into "us vs. them."
He said farm groups will have a seat on the pesticide task force.
A Republican lawmaker, Rep. Paul Torkelson of Hanska, was chief legislative negotiator behind the buffer law that passed in 2015 and was revised this year.


WEST FARGO—Two women who worked for the West Fargo Hockey Association's bingo operation at the M&J Saloon in West Fargo have been arrested on suspicion of defrauding the operation of more than $10,000.
Leah Willason, 39, of Fargo, and Amy Grieger, 41, of West Fargo, were arrested Thursday evening, Aug. 25, according to West Fargo police Detective Joe Birrenkott.
Birrenkott said one of the women worked as a caller for the bingo operation and the other was a floor walker.
He said they are suspected of having defrauded the hockey association of more than $10,000 since the first of the year.
The two women were being held in the Cass County Jail Friday morning, Aug. 26, pending possible theft charges involving an amount between $10,000 and $50,000, according to online jail records.

Two arrested on suspicion of swiping $10K from ND hockey club


Three men face felony charges after an alleged shoplifting spree at the new Mills Fleet Farm store in Hermantown.
Police said the suspects were apprehended on Tuesday afternoon — just six days after the store opened its doors — after they allegedly removed security devices and stole a number of items, including clothing, sunglasses, binoculars, tools and knives.
Jacob Anthony Carlson, 21, of Proctor; James Eugene Ferry, 27, of Toivola; and Kyle David Okstad, 25, of Duluth, each face a felony charge of possession of burglary tools.
Okstad also faces a fifth-degree possession of a controlled substance charge after police said a search turned up a small amount of heroin.
According to court documents:
Video surveillance showed the men entering the store, 4165 Loberg Ave., and concealing merchandise in their clothing.
The video showed Carlson using a knife to open a pair of binoculars, before discarding the empty packaging in a box of boots. He also was seen placing a cordless drill kit in his pants pocket.
Okstad was seen on the video removing a security tag from an Under Armor sweatshirt before proceeding to the hunting department, where he used a knife to steal a Leatherman multi-tool device.
Ferry was shown on the surveillance video removing tags from a pair of sunglasses and slicing open a package containing a tactical knife before leaving the store and meeting up with his co-defendants in the parking lot.
Hermantown police officers reviewed the video and stopped the vehicle, which was driven by Ferry. The stolen merchandise, along with knives suspected to be used in the theft, were recovered. Police said Ferry admitted that he agreed to drive his friends to the store to steal the goods.
A small plastic bag containing two-tenths of a gram of a substance that field-tested positive for heroin also was recovered from Okstad.
Assistant St. Louis County Attorney Kristen Swanson asked for cash bail for all three men, citing extensive criminal histories.
Ferry is currently on supervised release for a third-degree controlled substance charge, and had checked in for the Drug Court program just four days earlier, Swanson said.
Carlson was released from the Northeast Regional Corrections Center on July 17 after serving a sentence for third-degree burglary, felony theft and check forgery.
Okstad was released from prison on June 9 and remains on supervised release on charges of third-degree burglary, third-degree sale of a controlled substance and escape from custody.
Sixth Judicial District Judge Eric Hylden set bail at $20,000 for Okstad and $10,000 for Ferry and Carlson.
All three are due back in court on Sept. 14.

3 face felony charges in Mills Fleet Farm shoplifting


Taking a drink of what he said was clean Minnesota water, Gov. Mark Dayton launches a drive to get people to sign a pledge to protect the state's water on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2016. (Forum News Service photo by Don Davis)
"Good Minnesota clean water..." he declared after drinking from a blue bottle at the Minnesota State Fair. "May we always keep it available."
Dayton then asked every Minnesotan to take a pledge to care for the state's water.
"It is something we can no longer take for granted," he said in front of the Department of Natural Resources' fair fish pond.
Pollution Control Commissioner John Linc Stine said just 2 percent of Minnesota's water comes from outside the state, so no one is to blame but its residents for the 40 percent of watersheds that fail to meet water standards.
Health Commissioner Dr. Ed Ehlinger said that not only is clean water safe, but it also helps create a better economy.
And Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson encouraged landowners to "plant cover crops and buffer strips" to help clean up water by reducing runoff.
Dayton is leading a year-long charge to improve the state's water after Stine's department issued reports showing poor water quality in many parts of the state, but especially the southwest where farming is intense.
The pledge Dayton wants Minnesotans to take reads:
"I know that water is critical to my life. Because water is so critical, I vow to be a good steward of our water.
"I today take the Minnesota Water Stewardship Pledge to affirm my commitment to:
"Rethink how water impacts my life, and the lives of future generations.
"Use water efficiently and wisely in my everyday activities.
"Learn more about what people can do to protect and preserve water.
"Factor water use efficiency and protection into the choices as a consumer.
"Talk to others about clean water protection and preservation."

Dayton wants Minnesotans to take clean water pledge


ALEXANDRIA, Minn. - When Katie Coopet went to work Monday, she expected it to be a typical day working at the snack bar in the waterpark at Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center.
The 17-year-old, who will be a senior at Alexandria Area High School this fall, also works as a lifeguard at the waterpark. But Monday, she was "off duty" - or so she thought.
She not only had to call 911 for one of the lifeguards on duty who was having a seizure, she helped save the life of another lifeguard who also ended up having a seizure.
"I almost had to do CPR on my friend," she said. "At one point, he just stared at the ceiling, there was nothing there. His eyes were lifeless."
Coopet recalled the events that took place Aug. 22 during her shift at the waterpark. There were four lifeguards on duty and two people working the snack bar. She was one of them. Shortly after 5 p.m., one of her co-workers told her to call 911 because one of the lifeguards was having a seizure on the pool deck.
"She wasn't in the water, which was good," Coopet said.
While on the phone and after she knew help was on the way, Coopet told a coworker, whom she described as panicky, to wait outside for the ambulance.
"I tend to stay the calmest," she said, "so I stayed with the girl, who seemed terrified, and told her EMS was on its way."
In addition, Coopet called the waterpark manager, Beth Housen, and explained what was happening.
"She was calm and had a cool head. Katie did a good job," Housen said. "She was very professional."
Once the seizing lifeguard was being tended to by EMS and everything was OK, Coopet was asked by Housen to change into her swimsuit and move from the snack bar to lifeguarding.
Coopet said she was on her way to her car when she saw one of the other lifeguards, Austin Hohler. She said he has a history of seizures and she had witnessed two of them. She asked him if he was OK because he looked a little off. Hohler assured her he was fine. Coopet jokingly told him, "If I come back and you're on the floor, I'm going to punch you."
Because she has been with him having seizures before, she knew his signs. When she came back from changing into her suit, she asked Hohler again if he was OK.
"He just stared at me blankly," she explained. "I took him into our lifeguard room and had him sit down. I asked him what day it was, what time it was. He couldn't speak. And he was pale as a ghost."
Coopet said she has been through lifeguard training and is CPR certified so she remembered with seizure patients that you have to protect their head and put them on their side. However, at that point, her co-worker and friend was not actually seizing. She said Hohler was sitting down and that he was "kind of going in and out of it." She told him to lean on her as she felt like something was going to happen.
Although she could recall most of what happened, Coopet said some things are still a little fuzzy.
She remembers taking off his glasses and his lifeguard whistle from around his neck. At that point, Housen was with them and Coopet asked her to get a cold towel to put on Hohler's head.
"Katie saw that he was in trouble and took charge," said Housen. "She did an awesome job. I am proud of her. I am proud of all of them. As a group they worked hard and pulled together."
Coopet explained that Hohler wasn't necessarily having a seizure, but he was more or less twitching and it wouldn't last more than a few minutes.
At one point, however, he stopped breathing. "I had two fingers on his neck at all times, his heart was beating, but he wasn't breathing.
"I told him I needed to see his stomach rise and at that moment, his eyes darted open and he looked at me," explained Coopet. "I got him calmed down and told him to focus on me."
After Hohler had the first seizure, Housen called 911. Housen said she had to repeat herself a couple of times because the dispatcher thought she was still needing an ambulance for the first incident. She had to explain that there was a second person who was seizing.
At one point, Coopet said she took the CPR mask out of the first aid kit and ripped it open.
"I had it ready just in case," she said.
After five or six cycles of Hohler going in and out of consciousness, Coopet said he looked at her and got teary-eyed.
"I asked him if he was scared," Coopet said. "Even though he couldn't answer, I knew he was. I promised him he was going to be OK and I would get him through this. He stared right through me, like nothing was there."
Coopet admitted that she, too, was scared.
"Even if I am freaking out, I don't show it. I do what I need to do," Coopet said. "I was just doing my job."
That's the kind of job Coopet plans to do after she graduates. Coopet has plans to go to nursing school in Washington state with a goal of becoming a trauma nurse.
Her mother, Tracie Berglund, said it is very fitting. "Since she was 2, she's wanted to be in the medical field."
"I am so very proud of her. She's going to do well whatever she decides to do," Berglund said.
Hohler was transported to the Douglas County Hospital and then to Children's Hospital in the Twin Cities. According to a family member's Facebook page, he was expected to go home Thursday.

Lifeguard credited with staying calm during back-to-back emergencies


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Volunteers at the Blyth Tall Ship Regatta have been thanked for their efforts, which have helped make the festival 'an outstanding success'.
The helpers have included ship, event and technical liaison officers; and hospitality and town hosts. James Stevens, from race organisers Sail Training International, praised their efforts.
The Blyth Tall Ship volunteers.
He said: "Sail Training International travels to ports all over Europe and the volunteers have been up there with the absolute best we have ever seen. They were clearly well briefed and they have been friendly, efficient, positive and incredibly hard working.
"We've been talking to the volunteers and we've heard about the long hours they have put in, the extra personal efforts they have made and the many miles they have walked. The ships, trainees and the visiting public have all said that the volunteers have been amazing.
"They have been great ambassadors, not just for Blyth but also Northumberland, and given the event its heart. They should be very proud of what they have achieved and their contribution to the outstanding success of the event."
Volunteer Melanie Gray, who was in the crew centre, said she was very proud to be part of the event, while fellow helper Liz Finch, who was part of the crew services team, said the festival had attracted 'so many people' and believes it will encourage visitors to come back and explore more of the area.
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Volunteers at the Blyth Tall Ship Regatta have been thanked for their efforts, which have helped make the festival


Blyth Tall Ship volunteers praised for their efforts


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I read with interest the letter by W Morrison suggesting Holywell Avenue and Queens Road be made one way so that people can drive faster (News Guardian, August 4).


A maritime artist has created his own personal recognition to the Blyth Tall Ships Regatta.
Edwin Blackburn has produced a painting of the Williams II tall ship, as well as a limited edition print run, both of which will be on show among his exhibition due to open this weekend.
Money from the exhibition and sales of the print will go towards the Tall Ship project.
The charity is helping to uncover the history of Blyth and re-acting the voyage of discovery of Antarctica 200 years on in a wooden Tall Ship that the charity’s trainees and volunteers are refitting.
Edwin was inspired to support the charity by donating the proceeds of the sale of the original painting depicting “The Williams II approaching Blyth harbour”.
Edwin said: “I’m proud to be involved and help the charity in my own small way.”
The exhibition ‘Tall Ships and the Northumberland Coast’ will be held at The Blagdon Gallery, Milkhope Centre, from Sunday until the end of the Regatta.
Signed Limited Edition prints also available direct from the Blyth Tall Ship Organisation and Frameworks Gallery, Blyth.
Clive Gray, chief executive of Blyth Tall Ship, said: “We are hugely grateful to Edwin.
“This is a real honour for Blyth Tall Ship and recognises the great work our community volunteers, supporters, trainees and staff are doing to change perceptions and inspire different futures in Blyth.”
The project trains 50 young people and volunteers a year in Heritage Boat building skills at NVQ Level and working with archive and museum volunteers, is also conserving, digitising and sharing, the archives of the Port of Blyth.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Exhibition to support Regatta and project


A maritime artist has created his own personal recognition to the Blyth Tall Ships Regatta.


In the Standard Security Blyth and Wansbeck Sunday League premier division, Broomhill North End Trap went down 4-2 at home to Ashington Town Central.
Jonny Graham and Josh Baston scored for Trap, but strikes from Daniel Carr (2), Scott Neil and Brad Higgins won it for Town.
Cramlington Green were no match for inform Blyth Town Sunday, going down 6-0 at home. Keeper Ryan Haire was star man for the Green after an excellent display, but he could do nothing as Martyn Hepple (2), Ross Gilchrist, (2), Robert Ridley and Paul Katz were on target.
Earsdon Red Lion also went down, 4-1 at home to new boys Amble Tavern. Michael Starky scored for Lion, but goals from Nathan Buddle (2) and Josh Hay (2) maintained Tavern’s excellent start to the season.
A Josh Laverick goal for Bedlington Market Tavern was enough for the three points against Newsham Victory.
Division two saw Marden Residents score late to beat Ashington Sporting Club 5-4.
On target for Sporting Club were Adam Ord (2), Robert Watt and James Dodds, and for Residents Shaun Nolan (2), Marc Hunter, Mathew Dawson and Sean Joyce.
Bebside Inn ran riot when entertaining Guide Post Shakespeare Tavern as they won 11-0 with goals from Jason Hamilton (3), Simon Reay (2), Gavin Agnew, Ryan Waite, Ian Locke, David Long, Stephen Hardy and an own goal.
High Street had a 4-0 home win against new team Morpeth Conservative Club with Brandon Nadeem (2), Anthony Goldie and Adam Emmerson the scorers.
A tremendous game between North Shields Pineapple and Ellington Plough saw the latter win 6-3. Goals for Pineapple came from Shaun Blake (2) and Jay Dalton. Scoring for Plough were Jack Phillips (2), Jordan Dodds (2), Jack Elliott and Max Robinson.

Cramlington Green no match for Blyth Town Sunday


In the Standard Security Blyth and Wansbeck Sunday League premier division, Broomhill North End Trap went down 4-2 at home to Ashington Town Central.


Health services are working with organisers to ensure the right NHS services are available during the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
Thousands of visitors are expected to visit Blyth during the Tall Ships event, with local NHS officials reminding people to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water and apply sun cream during hot or humid weather.
A number of first aid posts will be based on the Tall Ships site throughout the event to help deal with any minor injuries and a range of other NHS services are available.
People are also being urged to plan ahead and order any repeat prescriptions they will need well in advance from their GP for the bank holiday weekend.
Local pharmacies will be open during the weekend.
There will be road and parking restrictions, as well as a one-way system in place during the event however emergency access and access for community, social care staff and carers for home visits will be maintained at all times.
Organisers and health providers are advising people to enjoy themselves and to be safe in the sun or the water.
Dr Alistair Blair, chief clinical officer for Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “The Tall Ships Regatta promises to be a fantastic event for people living locally and visitors and we want everyone to enjoy themselves and stay safe.
“We’d urge people to look after themselves by keeping well hydrated, applying sunscreen and sticking to shaded areas where possible and as we do not know what the weather will throw at us, be prepared for all eventualities and bring extra layers and waterproofs.
“If drinking alcohol, we would advise people to do so in moderation and drink water regularly.
“As with all bank holidays, we’d urge people to plan ahead and make sure they have all the medications they need for the weekend. It you need more over-the-counter medication or advice from a pharmacist, it’s worth remembering that there are pharmacies open all weekend, including bank holiday Monday.
“NHS 111 is available 24/7 as normal for urgent medical advice and we’d ask people to use the NHS wisely and leave urgent and emergency care services for those who need them most.”
Coun Val Tyler, Cabinet member for Arts, Leisure and Culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are expecting lots of residents and visitors in Blyth for this incredibly exciting event and we would like everyone to have an enjoyable and healthy weekend.
“Traffic controls will be in place to ease congestion and emergency access will be maintained at all times, including to the hospital and GP services in Blyth.
“Our Park and Ride car parks will have regular shuttle buses that will take visitors to the heart of the Regatta and tickets can be booked now at a discounted rate via the Tall Ships website.”
Limited Blue Badge parking is available but must be pre-booked by calling Ticketline on 0161 832 1111.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “We want visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta to have a great visit and we echo the advice of health services for people to have a great weekend and to take sensible precautions such as preparing for the weather.”
Up to 30 Tall Ships are expected to gather at Blyth for the event which takes place over the August bank holiday weekend August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment, including nightly fireworks.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Health services to be in place throughout Regatta


Health services are working with organisers to ensure the right NHS services are available during the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.


Newbiggin Hall maintained their 100 per cent start to the season with two victories in the week.
They took all three points from a tough encounter at Cramlington Town Reserves by a 3-1 scoreline, with Tony Dobie, Jonathan Anderson and Nathan Lowdon on target – Steven Patterson the scorer for Town.
They then travelled to Wardley and prevailed 7-3. Lowdon and Liam Walton both celebrated hat-tricks, with Dobie again on target. Michael Mains bagged a brace for Wardley with Jack Burns also scoring.
Wardley had picked up three points earlier in the week at Jesmond. Carl Clarke bagged a brace with Chris Lowther and Anthony Kew also on target as they won 4-1.
Forest Hall YPC celebrated two home wins in the week. Goals from Lewis Walker and Aaron Wright saw them past West Jesmond 2-0, while a brace from Paul Ridley and further strikes from Michael Sutcliffe, Adam Bambrough and Mark Potts earned them a 5-1 win over Newcastle Medicals, whose scorer was Joe O’Donnell.
Stobswood Welfare, however, continue to lead the pack. Steve Gibbard netted the only goal of a tight derby against Morpeth Town Seniors, with Welfare then going nap at Monkseaton FC A. Gibbard scored another pair, with Jake Baker, Kevin Bell and David King completing their tally.
Ponteland United Reserves sit just behind the leading trio and remain unbeaten. Darren Parkes cancelled out a Michael Grieves goal as they drew 1-1 with Morpeth Town Seniors, but earlier in the week Pont had seen off Newbiggin Hall Vettic by an improbable 22-0 scoreline, with 11 different goalscorers.
Heaton Stannington B picked up two wins in the week to move into fifth in the table. Their first success was 6-1 at the expense of Killingworth YPC Cobras, and included a 30-yard free kick from secretary David Jones. Nik Watson scored twice, and other goals were added by Connor Quinn, Martin Edmond and Jamie Anderson. Nathan Jeffery scored for Killingworth.
The Stan then travelled to North Shields Athletic Reserves and claimed an impressive 4-1 verdict. Jones netted again, as did Watson, with their other goals scored by Aladin Aada and the magnificently named Garrick Murphy-Collins. Daniel Haggerston scored the sole Shields reply.
Athletic had been held 0-0 by Monkseaton FC A earlier in the week, whilst Newcastle Medicals shared the points with Gosforth Bohemian Reserves – Richard Peppiatt’s goal for Medics being cancelled out by Nick Chance.
Sadly, Bohs’ clash with Jesmond on Saturday had to be abandoned due to a serious leg injury.

Hall maintain maximum start to Tynerside Amateur League season


Newbiggin Hall maintained their 100 per cent start to the season with two victories in the week.


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Police will be on hand to help visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta this weekend.
Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to turn out for the four-day event at Blyth as the race celebrates its 60th anniversary.
Officers from Northumbria Police are supporting the event organisers and will be on duty to offer advice and reassurance to attendees.
The local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be on duty and will be highly visible in Blyth while the Dog Section will also be on duty to introduce visitors to the new puppy recruits.
And the Force’s Marine Unit will be out on patrol to help keep the port secure and respond to any incidents on the water.
Sergeant Suzanne Crossley, who runs the unit, said: “We are really excited to be part of the Tall Ships and there is going to be a real buzz around the town.
“Everyone in the Marine Unit is looking forward to being a part of it and we will make sure we give everyone a wave from our boat which will be patrolling the water over the course of the weekend.
“Our main role is to keep the public safe and the port secure so that anyone attending the Tall Ships over the weekend can have the best possible experience.
“Open water can be really dangerous and we need the public to be aware of exactly what can happen if you enter the water at the Tall Ships over the weekend.
“The temperature of the water can cause the body to go into shock, the current could sweep you out to sea and objects such as rocks could be hidden under the water surface.
“You should never go into the water if you have been drinking alcohol and families should make sure that any young children are supervised and kept a safe distance from the water edge.
“We will be on duty and working closely with RNLI to deal with any incidents but we don’t anticipate any trouble and are looking forward to a really great event.”
Two Park and Ride sites will be in operation north and south of Blyth and there will be no parking for vehicles within the town itself as a number of road closures and road blocks will be in place.
A limited number of disability parking will be available in the town centre but visitors will have to reserve a space in advance. Taxis and existing public transport links will continue to operate throughout the weekend.
For more information about the event, parking and transport to and from the Tall Ships visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com/

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Police to offer help and reassurance during Regatta


Police will be on hand to help visitors to the Tall Ships Regatta this weekend.


Community artwork is to go on display as part of the Tall Ships Regatta.
Local artist Michele Rickitt was inspired to develop a community art project in Blyth.
Teaming up with emerging artists Ann Marie Dalton, Denise Primrose and Jane Sutcliffe, they secured funding from Blyth Town Council and Arts Council England.
The four were all participants on the Future Creatives Enterprise Programme funded by bait, and the programme helped bring the team together and create the project.
The project culminates in an exhibition, “Blyth Community Sails”, in St Cuthbert’s C of E Church, Plessey Road, Blyth, from August 26 to 29.
The exhibition will be open each day from 10am to 4pm and on Sunday there will be a special service from 9.30am to 10.45am.
The artists have been delivering workshops in community groups and centres in Blyth, including Bright Beginnings in Northumberland, the Briardale, and the Buffalo.
The centrepiece of the exhibition is a set of three symbolic sails representing the ‘Past, Present, and Future’, which feature the art created during the workshops.
Alongside the sails there will be a display of Portholes created in a textiles workshop held at Weave in Lynemouth.
The team have been working closely with St Cuthbert’s Church, enabling groups that use the Church to produce work for the exhibition including an 11 foot long seascape collage and a flotilla of origami paper boats.
Ann Marie, Denise, and Jane worked with youth groups at the Buffalo Community Centre to create a site-specific art installation for their foyer, which is also going to be on display.
Michele said: “We have been delighted by the enthusiasm of everyone we’ve worked with during the project.
“People who wouldn’t normally take part in arts activities told us how much they have enjoyed the workshops, and that they would participate in more things like this.
“We wanted this project to connect the residents of Blyth to the Tall Ships Regatta using art, and I believe that we have succeeded thanks to the fantastic community engagement we’ve experienced.
“We would like to thank Blyth Town Council and Arts Council England for funding the project.
“We hope that visitors to the Regatta will see what the local community has achieved in just four months.”
• A final call is being made for two unsung heroes to be special guests at the Tall Ships celebrations.
The Commissioner’s Quay Inn at Blyth will be hosting an exclusive party with grandstand viewing of the ships and is looking for two people from the Blyth area who go the extra mile to help others.
You have until Monday, August 15, to send your nominations to Commissioners Quay Competition, News Post Leader, Unit 15, Telford Court, Loansdean, Morpeth NE61 2DB, or email news.leader@jpress.co.uk

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: More artwork to go on show for Regatta


Community artwork is to go on display as part of the Tall Ships Regatta.


Motorists are being advised to avoid part of the A19 after a lorry overturned.
The lorry, which was carrying logs, has overturned at Moor Farm roundabout, in Cramlington, and shed its load on the road.
Police are on the scene, with the road expected to be closed until after 5pm.
Diversions are currently in place.
Drivers travelling south are being advised to avoid the area, with heavy congestion already building up.


Motorists are being advised to avoid part of the A19 after a lorry overturned.


A section of the Port of Blyth is to open to the public for the first time in living memory.
Officials at the port will open one of the secure terminals as part of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
A large area of the South Harbour terminal will open for the duration of the regatta to allow for a greater number of ships to be included in the August Bank Holiday event and to ensure the public can get to see them.
Visitors will get unique access to an area normally closed to the public with the chance to see plenty of what goes on within a working port.
In addition to the historic ships, there will be several naval vessels, a number of RAF helicopters and a host of food and entertainment stalls.
Pedestrians will be able to access the terminal from two entrances – one on Wensleydale Terrace, via the Ridley Park car park, and the other from Quay Road, adjacent to the Blyth Boathouse Restaurant. The Tall Ships located in South Harbour will be just a few minutes’ walk from those hosted on the public Dun Cow and Commissioners Quays.
Chief executive Martin Lawlor said: “Opening our doors to the public is going to be a big moment for us as it is the first time in living memory we’ve done so.
“Obviously some areas will be fenced off to ensure safety and to allow us to continue with some work but we hope the attractions in the open area and the chance to see behind the scenes will prove popular with both local residents and visitors.”
In addition, Blyth Harbour Commission has announced some restrictions to access at the north end of Blyth’s South Beach for the duration of the event. West Pier and some surroundings areas will be closed from 8am on Thursday 25th August until 6pm on Monday 29th August, while access to and from the beach east of the bandstand area of South Beach will also be closed.
Capt Martin Willis, Harbour Master, said: “Public safety will be our number one priority for the duration of the Tall Ships Regatta.
“We would ask the public to respect these closures and understand that they are in place for everyone’s safety.
“Although we understand that the West Pier and the surrounding areas are popular with the public, the risk to public safety is considered too great to have these areas open whilst so many people are in Blyth for the event.
“There are many other excellent viewing locations both within Blyth and the surrounding coastline for all to enjoy the spectacle of seeing these wonderful vessels.”


A section of the Port of Blyth is to open to the public for the first time in living memory.


Sorry, we're having problems with our video player at the moment, but are working to fix it as soon as we can
Blyth is gearing up for another massive day tomorrow when many more thousands of people will flock to the Tall Ships Regatta.
There was plenty to see and do today as these pictures from John Tuttiett Photography show.
Blyth Harbour Master Martin Willis; Tall Ships race director James Stevens; Alan Ferguson, from principal sponsor Fergusons of Blyth;David Hull, Northumbrian Water; Martin Lawler, Port of Blyth; Coun Grant Dave, Northumberland County Council Leader;and Sara Olsson, representing Gothenburg. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
They include a picture from the opening ceremony of Blyth Harbour Master Martin Willis; Tall Ships race director James Stevens; Alan Ferguson, from principal sponsor Fergusons of Blyth; David Hull, Northumbrian Water; Martin Lawler, Port of Blyth; Coun Grant Dave, Northumberland County Council Leader; and Sara Olsson, representing Gothenburg, the destination of the Tall Ships race.
Also pictured are crowds waiting to board the Dar Mlodziezy and a crew member welcoming people onto the ship; some of the street entertainment; and Alan Ferguson, in his grandfather's 1926 Bean truck. Fergusons is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year.
Have you got something to share on the story? Were you there? What do you think? - Send your pictures, videos or story and we'll publish the best × Continue the story More pictures from the Tall Ships Regatta Loading ... Add up to 3 photos or 1 videos to the story There's been a problem uploading your files. Please try again. By uploading your file you agree to our Terms and Conditions × Continue the story Sign in to contribute sign in shape the news in your area...


Blyth is gearing up for another massive day tomorrow when many more thousands of people will flock to the Tall Ships Regatta.


More pictures from the Tall Ships Regatta


Gardeners are helping to bring a splash of colour to the streets ahead of the forthcoming North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.
An extra splash of colour has been brought to a circular design featuring a nautical theme planted on the links near the bandstand at Blyth.
Wild flowers that have been planted ahead of the Tall Ships Regatta in Blyth.
The design features a two-masted ship as its centrepiece celebrating Blyth’s very own Tall Ship, the Williams II, and the imminent arrival of a fleet of Tall Ships to the port.
The bed, which is five metres in diameter, features a red and yellow theme to match the colours of the Northumberland county flag.
The colour theme has been repeated across all floral displays in Blyth.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth the principal sponsor.
Blyth Town Council has funded the maritime gardening while the gardeners work for the county council’s Neighbourhood Services team.
The design was sent to Kernock Plants in Cornwall with the plants delivered to site, pre-grown in trays.
It took the gardening team four hours to complete the planting of nearly 20,000 plants to create the bed.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture at the county council, said: “These floral displays are a wonderful way to celebrate the Tall Ships coming to Northumberland.
“The designs are ingenious and the Northumberland-themed wildflower displays are a joy to see, providing a bright and beautiful welcome for our residents and the many visitors coming into the town.”
The team has also planted spectacular wildflower displays along Rotary Way and South Newsham Road.
The wildflowers along Rotary way were funded by Blyth Town Council and include a mixture of cornfield annuals including poppy, corn marigold, corn clower, corn chamomile and corn cockle.
Local ward councillor and chair of events at Blyth Town Council, Kath Nisbet: “The gardening team has done a superb job creating these maritime and wildflower beds.
“The Blyth Tall Ship Williams II design is a great floral tribute to the past exploits of our very own local hero, Captain William Smith, and the future plans to recreate his journey of adventure and discovery of Antarctica.”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “There are just three weeks to the Regatta and Blyth is really starting to look the part for welcoming the Tall Ships fleet to the county with street dressing, floral displays, and posters in shop windows – it’s very exciting!”
The Tall Ships Regatta Blyth 2016 takes place over the weekend of August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Flowers helping bring splash of colour to Regatta


Gardeners are helping to bring a splash of colour to the streets ahead of the forthcoming North Sea Tall Ships Regatta.


Crowds are continuing to flock to the Tall Ships Regatta as the landmark event goes into its third day.
Tens of thousands of people have descended on the Port of Blyth to see more than 20 tall ships and a host of activities around the town.
Away from the Tall Ships, queues grow to see the other attractions, including a Royal Navy rescue helicopter. Picture by LJ Sedgwick.
Despite a wet start, which saw the southern park and ride car park closed due to flooding, the number of visitors at the event has grown as the day progresses.
Most have taken advantage of the final opportunity to get on board some of the tall ships, which are due to welcome their crew back on board tomorrow (Monday) ahead of their departure at 2pm.
As well as the tall ships, there are five areas of family-fun filled activities taking part – stretching from Blyth beach to the Market Square in the town centre – with a wide range of food stalls keeping the visitors fed and watered.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “The Regatta is in full-swing now and today has been extremely popular with visitors coming from near and far to see the ships and enjoy all the entertainment. It really is an impressive sight.”
The crowds are expected to continue to grow ahead of the third and final firework display, due to take place at 9pm.
For more information on the Regatta visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com, www.facebook.com/tallshipsblyth2016 or on Twitter @TallShipsBlyth

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Crowds continue to flock to Regatta despite wet start


Crowds are continuing to flock to the Tall Ships Regatta as the landmark event goes into its third day.


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I recently held a coffee morning (July 9) in aid of St Oswald’s Hospice’s 30th birthday, when we made a grand total of £566 towards this worthy cause.


Even the weather didn’t disappoint as Northumberland’s biggest ever event weighed anchor yesterday.
Blyth was a hive of activity and excitement as thousands of residents and visitors flocked to the town for the first day of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.
After months of planning, the event finally got under way with sunshine and blue skies providing the perfect backdrop to the 23 majestic Tall Ships lining the length of the quayside.
The Tall Ships Regatta is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors over the course of the weekend who will be able to climb on board the ships, enjoy free family fun, live music, street theatre, fun fairs, fireworks and evening entertainment. The event will be open until 10pm today and Sunday and 5pm on Monday.
Today’s highlights include a parade of the ships’ crews and community, which will start at 3pm, and a spectacular 20-minute firework display at 9pm.
Northumberland County Councillor Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “It is really great that the event has started so well, with thousands of people coming into the town to see the ships and everything else on offer. The best thing is there’s still three days to go!”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “Seeing the quayside so alive with people and the magnificent tall ships moored side by side along the river is a spectacle that will live long in the memory. We are pleased that the months of planning are now complete and the event has got off to a great start.”
Alan Ferguson, chairman of Fergusons of Blyth, the event’s principal sponsor, said: “We’re so proud to see our town in the national spotlight with crowds lining the quayside and enjoying all the entertainment. There is so much to see and do around Blyth this weekend and we’re all looking forward to the next few days.”
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta.
Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately-owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, is the principal sponsor for the event in celebration of its 90th anniversary.
There is no parking in Blyth town centre over the weekend but an extensive park and ride system is in operation. For full details visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com

Oh buoy, what a day at the Tall Ships Regatta


Even the weather didn’t disappoint as Northumberland’s biggest ever event weighed anchor yesterday.


Two key members of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta organising team have expressed their delight at how well it is going so far.
And they have set out how important the four-day event is for other parts of Northumberland following an excellent first day.
Tens of thousands of people have already visited Blyth to see the 23 majestic ships in place ahead of the start of the latest race on Monday.
They have also enjoyed a range of entertainment and activities at the port, as well as in the Market Place, Dun Cow Quay, Ridley Park and by Blyth beach.
David Hall, of one of the event sponsors Northumbrian Water, is also chairman of Northumberland Tourism and Active Northumberland.
He said: "When you look at the visitor numbers from yesterday, I think it was approaching 100,000 across the whole day and I'm confident of reaching half a million by the end of the event, which will provide a boost for the county's tourism economy of between £5million and £10million.
"Many businesses in Northumberland are benefiting form the regatta. For example, I know that bakers based in Morpeth and Alnwick are supplying products.
"Visitors have been complimentary about the breadth of activities available as well as the space provided for the ships.
"This event is good for other towns and villages that rely heavily on tourism as hotels and B&Bs further up the coast are reporting that there aren't many beds left.
"The legacy will hopefully be that people will come back to Northumberland having been impressed with what they have seen this weekend and a boost for sailing in the county, particularly for its yacht clubs."
He added that a number of tourist attractions in the county have set-up information displays and stalls in Ridley Park using donated freight containers.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture at the county council, said: "There is something for everyone at the event and the way it's laid out means it's very accessible whether you are able bodied or not.
"Everyone I've spoken to so far has nothing but praise for how it's being organised.
"It took a lot of hard work by many people to bring the event to Northumberland and the key message we're putting across is that this will benefit the whole county.
"Many people are taking the opportunity to visit some of our other towns and villages this weekend and the trainees who will be involved in the race are from all over Northumberland, with councillors support them through their members small schemes fund.
"One councillor chipped in to help fund two bus loads of young people from the Tyne Valley to come along and that's important because we want to encourage people in the west of the county to visit the south east and vice versa.
"It's great that the Port of Blyth has been so supportive and the activities have not curtailed any of its operations. Everyone is working together to make sure the event is a huge success.
The ships will start the race to Gothenburg, Sweden, on Monday. The distance is approximately 600 nautical miles.
A parade of the crews this afternoon will start at 3pm and race chairman James Stevens said they were getting excited for the week ahead at a Captain's Dinner event at Alnwick Castle last night.
He added: "It's very obvious that the town of Blyth has really got into the occasion and people I've spoken to are very enthusiastic about the Tall Ships.
"Day one was great and I'm sure it will be an excellent weekend. Hopefully, there will be a bit of wind on Monday when the race starts.
"The crews will take it very seriously and the responsibilities they will have will bring them together."

Tall Ships event 'great for whole county'


Two key members of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta organising team have expressed their delight at how well it is going so far.


The park and ride south car park is now fully open following it's temporary closure yesterday due to the bad weather.
Visitors to the final day of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta will enjoy the spectacular Parade of Sail; when the Tall Ships will sail from Blyth, southwards to St Mary's lighthouse before sailing five miles out to sea to start the race to Gothenburg.
The ships will start to leave to the port of Blyth from 1pm today, with the parade of sail expected to take place until 2.30pm.
As a result the ships are not available for the public to board today, but are available to view this morning.
The event will include a range of other entertainment until it closes at 5pm today.

Tall Ships park and ride car parks fully open


The park and ride south car park is now fully open following it


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A church’s holiday club has been hailed a success.


Another company has signed up to offer support to the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, due to be held in Blyth at the end of the month.
EDF Energy Renewables has recently started construction work on a new offshore wind farm to be located around 6km off the Blyth coast, connecting to a new substation being built on the site of the former Blyth Power Station.
Work has already begun on the new substation and marine surveys are being carried out at sea ahead of construction work starting next year on the installation of the project’s five offshore wind turbines.
Matthieu Hue, chief executive of EDF Energy Renewables, said: “We are aware of Blyth’s rich maritime history and we are delighted to support the visit of the Tall Ships.
“The new Blyth offshore wind farm is an important development for us and wherever we operate we always try to be a strong partner for the local economy and to support local communities.
“I am sure this will be a spectacular and memorable event and it provides a great opportunity for us to mark the start of our project and our involvement in the local area.
“We hope everyone has a fantastic time during the festival.”
The Blyth offshore wind farm will be EDF Energy Renewables’ second offshore wind farm following the Teesside project off the north east coast at Redcar.
Marcel Sunier, project director for the Blyth Offshore Wind Farm, said: “The Port of Blyth will be used during the commissioning of the wind farm and for operations and maintenance activities when complete.
“I am sure the visit of the Tall Ships will be a special celebration and something that we are delighted to be associated with.”
When operational, the Blyth offshore wind farm will provide enough low carbon electricity to meet the annual needs of around 33,000 homes.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth confirmed as the Principal Sponsor.
Coun Val Tyler, Cabinet member for Arts, Leisure and Culture at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Tall Ships rely on wind power for most of their energy and the renewables industry is an increasingly important part of our Northumberland economy.
“We are delighted to have EDF Energy Renewables as a sponsor for the Regatta.”
At its peak there will be around 200 people working on the Blyth offshore wind farm and the project will incorporate a number of new and innovative construction features.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “We are delighted to be supporting EDF Energy Renewables in the development of Blyth Offshore Wind Farm and look forward to being partners with them for decades to come.
“EDF ER sponsoring the Tall Ships Regatta is great news and will only enhance this major event.”
The Tall Ships Regatta Blyth 2016 takes place over the weekend of August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Powering up more support for Regatta


Another company has signed up to offer support to the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta, due to be held in Blyth at the end of the month.


Thousands of people have packed Blyth for the first day of the Tall Ships Regatta.


A Northumberland teenager is very excited about the adventure that awaits on one of the Tall Ships that will set sail for Gothenburg later this afternoon.
Although flying is her main passion, Esmee Webley felt that being a member of a crew taking part in the week-long race across the North Sea was too good an opportunity to miss.
The Morpeth resident has been with the Bedlington Squadron Air Cadets for nearly four years. She is on board Maybe - a Class B vessel.
Over the weekend when the regatta was in Blyth, there was an air cadets information tent and she and fellow squadron members from across the county were present to speak to young people and parents about what the organisation has to offer.
Of the forthcoming regatta, the 17-year-old said: "I applied individually to be part of the Tall Ships race as I believe it will be a great experience.
"I sent a couple of emails to explain why I was keen to go on the voyage and I was thrilled when I was lucky enough to be chosen.
"Being in a challenging environment with people I don't know will help my skills development, but I'm also hoping to enjoy it and have a good time. I'm excited and I'm looking forward to making lots of new friends.
"I wouldn't have been able to have so many fantastic opportunities and put myself forward for something like this without the support of my squadron."
Esmee, who is also an explorer scout, thanked Morpeth North county councillor David Bawn for providing some of his small schemes allocation to help fund her place in the regatta.
She ideally would like to be a pilot with the RAF or Royal Navy and after a work experience stint there earlier this summer, she has enrolled to train for a microlight National Private Pilot's Licence with Purple Aviation at Eshott Airfield.
She added: "It's great being part of the air cadets as you get to do fun activities such as aerobatics with an experienced instructor.
"Also, the camps I went on during the first couple of years, which included things like kayaking and rock climbing, were very useful as they developed my communication and other skills."

Esmee looking forward to Tall Ships experience


A Northumberland teenager is very excited about the adventure that awaits on one of the Tall Ships that will set sail for Gothenburg later this afternoon.


The ‘Northumberland Navy’ of sail trainees is set to swell as The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta approaches.
Four new recruits have been selected to take part in Regatta activities and join the race to Sweden from the Northumberland coast.
The trainees are being supported by Blyth ward councillors Grant Davey; Susan Davey; Gordon Webb; and by Berwick East Ward councillor, Jim Smith.
The four trainees have been selected by the Northumberland Youth Service and will be joining the Tall Ship Christian Radich.
The trainees are Edward Alan Stoker, aged 18; Paul Cozens, aged 22; and Cameron Hartley, aged 16, all from Blyth; and Shannon Lowrie, aged 16 from Berwick.
A total of 80 recruits aged 15 to 63 have now enlisted to take part in the 500 nautical mile race from Blyth to Gothenburg.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth confirmed as the Principal Sponsor.
Cameron has just left Bede School Academy and is being sponsored by Isabella Ward councillor Gordon Webb.
He said: “I’ve sailed before on a week’s training and sailed from North Shields to Blyth and Hartlepool and I can’t wait to be part of this.
“I loved the experience and I’m really looking forward to being part of a big team on board this huge Tall Ship.
“It will be my first time abroad and my first time in a Tall Ships race so I’m very excited.”
Shannon, from Spittal, Berwick, is being sponsored by Coun Jim Smith.
Shannon said: “It’s a bit scary and also incredibly exciting to have been selected in the Regatta and join a Tall Ship in the race to Gothenburg – what a way to travel abroad for the first time!
“I haven’t sailed before but I think this will be an amazing opportunity to sail on one of these majestic Tall Ships and I’m really looking forward to the experience.”
Most of the Tall Ships trainees come from Northumberland and 33 are being sponsored by ward councillors.
Coun Grant Davey, leader of Northumberland County Council, is supporting sail trainee, Edward Stoker.
Coun Davey said: “Taking part in the Regatta events and sailing to Gothenburg will be a thrilling adventure for our trainees.
“It will be an amazing experience for the trainees to join an international crew and race on a Tall Ship to Sweden. It’s an opportunity to learn new skills and to tackle some unique challenges and I’m delighted to be supporting Edward.”
Alwyne Colley and Steve Barrigan from the Northumberland Youth Service will be mentoring and accompanying the trainees.
There are still spaces available for paying trainees. Visit www.sailtraininginternational.org/sail-on-board
The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta Blyth 2016 takes place over the weekend of August 26 to 29, and features five zones of free family entertainment.

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Trainees ready to set sail in race


The ‘Northumberland Navy’ of sail trainees is set to swell as The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta approaches.


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The Blyth Tall Ships Regatta has been 'exceedingly well attended', pulling in 'hundreds of thousands' of visitors.
The four-day event, which was the largest to have ever taken place in Northumberland, was the UK's only regatta in 2016. While final details are being worked on, it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people visited the event, coming from near and far. A detailed analysis will be taking place over the next few weeks to evaluate the event and to determine the extent of the impact on the local and regional economy, which was expected to be in the region of £8million.
The Blyth Tall Ships Regatta has been hailed a massive success.
As well as 23 majestic tall ships, the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta - which started on Friday and ended today - offered more than 1.5 miles of free entertainment. Visitors were able to climb on board some of the ships, enjoy free family fun, live music, street theatre, fair ground rides and nightly fireworks and evening performances.
The event included an extensive cultural programme, thanks to a £120,000 grant from Arts Council England and National Lottery funded Grants.
Activities stretched from the beach right up to the town centre. Highlights included the crew parade and re-enacted Blyth carnival which involved 1,000 people on Saturday afternoon. It also included a nightly fireworks performance which was accompanied by a film and musical score created by Swedish artist Cecilia Stenbom and UK composer Chris Sharkey who have worked with local people from Blyth and Gothenburg to produce the performance. The event culminated in the magnificent Parade of Sail this afternoon, when the Tall Ships left the Port of Blyth, accompanied by up to 70 flotillas, and sailed down the coast to St Mary's Lighthouse before sailing five miles out to sea ready to start their 500-plus nautical miles race to Gothenburg.
More than 1,000 staff and volunteers worked during the event, with many accommodation providers in Northumberland sold out over the weekend. There are 80 trainees aged between 15 and 63 years who will get their first taste of life aboard and working on a Tall Ship. Many of which are from Northumberland and 33 have been supported by Northumberland County Council ward councillors. There were also 140 volunteers, again most from Northumberland who helped over the four event day event in various roles. The volunteers have been thanked for their efforts.
The spectacular event has attracted visitors from far and wide.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, hosted the prestigious regatta. Fergusons of Blyth, one of the UK’s leading privately-owned haulage companies and the biggest in the North East, was the principal sponsor for the event in celebration of its 90th anniversary.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture for the county council, said: “The last four days have been a magnificent and memorable event - to see the joy and excitement with thousands of people who enjoyed themselves is something that will be a lasting memory for me.”
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth said: “The port, the people, the ships and everyone else involved this weekend has done Blyth and the wider region proud. While we are sorry to see the ships go the impact they have brought will be felt well into the future."
Alan Ferguson, chairman of Fergusons of Blyth, said: “The regatta has been a fantastic success and we were so proud, in our 90th year, to be the main supporter of this huge event. The regatta showcased what this town can do and should be a springboard for its continued growth.”
The event proved popular with visitors. Sue Symes visited the festival with her husband Mick. She said: "We attended the event on Saturday and had a fantastic day from our start at midday until 9pm to see the spectacular fireworks.
"I was very much looking forward to the event and wasn't disappointed at all. From our arrival at the park and ride north to the bandstand area and back we managed to see just about everything. The highlights for me were the parade of the crews, so vibrant and fun, and of course the fireworks! Too many other things to mention but just an all round great, friendly experience. I feel proud to come from the North East.
"Well done to everyone involved in making this a great experience, there was plenty to do and see for all ages and for such a small community Blyth you should be proud! Thank you."
Debbie Kings, from Nottingham, said: "It's the first time we have been to Blyth - not our first trip to Northumberland though. It's also the first time we've ever been to an event like this - hence why we were so impressed. Loved the yellow wrist bands for children - saw it in action when a very upset little boy was found by a policeman who promptly phoned mum. Thought the stewarding around the town was spot on. And the sheer enthusiasm of everyone, the smiling faces - terrific!"

WATCH: Blyth Tall Ships Regatta hailed a success, attracting 'hundreds of thousands' of visitors


‘I’m very impressed with Blyth’ - that’s the verdict of the race chairman for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.
Speaking to us earlier today, James Stevens, from organisers Sail Training International, said: “Blyth has done us proud, they’ve been really, really good and very welcoming. The whole town has thrown itself into doing this, which is great.
“It looks great too. I have got to say, I came to Blyth 30 years ago and they have done wonders to the waterfront. They have tried really hard and having the Tall Ships there just gives the perfect backdrop. I’m very impressed with Blyth; it’s an industrial port, but they have opened their doors to us.”
And talking about the regatta and how it works, Mr Stevens underlined how the 600-mile race across the North Sea from Blyth, Northumberland, to Gothenburgh, Sweden, is really a youth event.
“Half the crews, half of all the trainees are young people under the age of 25, a lot of them haven’t sailed before and some of them are from quite disadvantaged backgrounds,” he said. “Some of them are sponsored by Blyth and some of them are paid for by Gothenburg.
“Most of them haven’t sailed at all so they’ll probably be pretty anxious now, wondering what they have let themselves in for, but that’s all part of it and you find that they look anxious now but when they get to Gothenburg, they’ll be three inches taller and part of a team.
“You can’t sail these ships unless you all pull the rope at the same time. It’s not going to work unless the crew are doing their jobs.
“It’s absolutely miles away from anything they have done before and the captains say that when they get out of mobile-phone coverage, they suddenly gel into a team. They can’t get on Facebook so then that (sailing the ship) becomes their life.”
But these events don’t just happen overnight with Mr Stevens describing the job of organising the regatta as ‘massive’.
“It starts several years in advance, about four or five years, so now Sail Training International is looking at events in 2020/2021,” he said. “It also takes a whole army of volunteers – I think we have about 60 or 70 here – including the liaison officers who meet the ships and help them with getting any food and provisions, if they’ve got problems, find out where the chandler’s shop is, any gas or water or fuel - all that has to be dealt with.”

TALL SHIPS: ‘Blyth has done us proud’, says race chairman


‘I’m very impressed with Blyth’ - that’s the verdict of the race chairman for the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2016.


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I’m writing to thank the people of the north east for showing their support for people affected by stroke and signing our petition.


A leading leisure airline has announced a major recruitment drive, with 1,000 pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions available across the UK, with 90 of these in Newcastle.
To support this drive by Jet2.com, the company hosted a recruitment roadshow in Novotel, Newcastle, yesterday. The roadshow was designed to support the recruitment of pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions at Newcastle Airport as the company continues to grow.
Earlier this year, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays launched its biggest ever flights and holidays programme for summer 2017 from the airport, with more flights and more seats to 28 sunshine hotspots.
Following the recent addition of an eighth UK base in Birmingham with flights launching in 2017, alongside the acquisition of 30 new B737-800 aircraft commencing in September 2016 over a two-year period, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays is looking to invest in its next phase of growth and development.
This continuous expansion has opened up a wealth of exciting opportunities for a host of talented pilots, cabin crew and engineers alike.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “Our family-friendly formula is clearly working with customers and it means that we’re one of the UK’s fastest growing airlines. We have exciting plans to expand the number of destinations we fly to, as well as the number of UK bases we fly from, and this means that our team is growing all the time too. We were delighted to see so many pilots, engineers and aspiring cabin crew at our Newcastle roadshow.”
Jet2.com is the fourth largest registered airline in the UK and has recently been voted the UK’s favourite airline by TripAdvisor users and the UK’s most loved airline by users of the airline review website, Skytrax.
It is looking to recruit B737 and B757 Type Rated and Non Type Rated captains and first officers to play a pivotal role in the company’s ongoing success.
The roles are targeted at experienced pilots with an existing commercial or military background, a strong training record and the commitment, energy and flexibility required to deliver friendly low fares to their all-important customers.
Aspiring cabin crew members will be passionate about customer service with a positive and flexible approach to work to ensure the customers always receive a truly VIP service when flying with Jet2.com.
Outside of the cockpit, engineers are on hand 24/7 to ensure flights continue to operate safely.
The airline’s EA 145 maintenance approval covers both line and base maintenance and experienced engineers also work in office-based roles, including Powerplant, technical Services, airworthiness and maintenance programmes.
As the UK’s leading leisure airline, with a fleet of more than 63 aircraft flying to more than 220 routes to popular destinations in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and a wealth of European Cities, this marks an exciting time for pilots, cabin crew and engineers to hop aboard the team.
Visit the Jet2.com website to see all of the jobs available.

Major airline to create 90 jobs at Newcastle International Airport


A leading leisure airline has announced a major recruitment drive, with 1,000 pilot, cabin crew and engineering positions available across the UK, with 90 of these in Newcastle.


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We would like to say a big thank-you to the organisers of the seventh annual Holiday at Home, hosted by the members of Cullercoats Methodist Church this week.


The Tall Ships programme has been giving young people an opportunity to experience life on the water.
A group of teenagers made up most of the crew on the Challenger 3 boat that sailed from Portsmouth to Blyth over the past week.
The five-day journey included docking periods in Cowes and Hartlepool and it was a challenging start as the wind was 40 knots. The ship reached Northumberland on Thursday.
These sailing trips are provided by the Tall Ships Youth Trust. Bursaries are available to young people from across the country.
As well as fund-raisers and proceeds from adult voyages, money for the youth voyages is donated individual sponsors.
Becky Tweedale, 17, was one of the teenagers on-board. This was her first time sailing.
She said: "I was looking to do something memorable this summer and I stumbled across the Tall Ships Youth Trust sailing opportunities online.
"I'm so glad that I signed up because it has been an amazing experience and I've learnt so much in a short space of time.
"I felt awful at first because it was so rocky and I had to get used to the watch system of being asleep for four hours then awake for four hours as we sailed through the night.
"I didn't realise that the crew also chipped in with cooking and cleaning, but once I got used to it, I found being on-board very enjoyable.
"I made some new friends and we were able to play some fun games when we docked. It has also been useful to develop the hand signal communication skills and learning the sailing terms."
The Doncaster resident added that she has got the taste for it and will be part of a crew on a boat from Southampton to Brixham in Devon next week.
Adult Kirstie Rowe, mate on board Challenger 3, said: "The youngsters were quiet at the start of the journey, but they soon became more confident and being in such a close environment helped them to talk to each other, and now they are very chatty.
"Some of them have been recommended for watch leader and assistant watch leader positions so they can help other youngsters who are giving sailing a try on future voyages."
For more information about voyages with the Tall Ships Youth Trust, visit tallships.org


The Tall Ships programme has been giving young people an opportunity to experience life on the water.


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What a magnificent sight. The Tall Ships put on a fantastic spectacle as they left Northumberland this afternoon.
Our slideshow of pictures by John Tuttiett Photography captures the climax to the four-day extravaganza, when more than 20 vessels hoisted their sails to leave Port of Blyth and set off for the 500-nautical-mile journey to Gothenburg in Sweden.
The Tall Ships leave Blyth. Picture by John Tuttiett Photography
The Parade of Sail took them down the coast to St Mary's Island and then out to see for the 18-day journey.
More pictures and video of the amazing event to come.
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What a magnificent sight. The Tall Ships put on a fantastic spectacle as they left Northumberland this afternoon.


Tall Ships ahoy! The fleet sails out of Blyth


A full team of volunteers have been recruited to help make The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta extra special.
Organisers put out a call for would-be volunteers four months ago and received a wave of applications.
A total of 140 volunteers have been recruited over the four event days at Blyth.
They make up Ship Liaison Officers (SLOs), Town Hosts, Event Liaison Officers (ELOs) and Technical Liaison Officers (TLOs).
The volunteers will be wearing yellow, turquoise and red polo-shirts.
Northumberland County Council, in partnership with the Port of Blyth and Sail Training International, is hosting the prestigious Regatta with Fergusons of Blyth as the Principal Sponsor.
Coun Val Tyler, cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “We have a superb team of friendly, reliable volunteers who will play a vital role assisting the organisers, and helping the crews, residents and visitors to have a wonderful bank holiday.
“It will be a busy weekend but it’ll also be fun and very rewarding. The ship and land-based volunteers will gain a wealth of experience while helping to deliver a world-class event.”
The ship-based SLOs will be working with the ships and their crews providing essential communications between them and Sail Training International and the event team.
Carol Bird and her husband John, both 71 and from Amble, will be working as Ship Liaison Officers.
She said: “I’m really excited about the Tall Ships Regatta.
“We love yachting and we’re really looking forward to seeing the Tall Ships sailing into Blyth and meeting the international crews and being part of this magical event.”
Volunteer Aillie Osborne, 48, from Ulgham, will be a volunteer within hospitality.
She said: “I’m excited that the Regatta is just over a month away now and I’m really looking forward to being part of the team.”
Michael Allen, 55 from Blyth, will be an ELO.
He said: “It is amazing to have this international event on our doorstep and being a volunteer is a great opportunity to be a part of it. I can’t wait.”
The Event Liaison Officers will be supporting the Event Managers and the arts cultural program, and the ‘Town Hosts’ will be providing tourism advice and guidance to visitors.
Up to 30 Tall Ships are expected to gather at Blyth for the Regatta which takes place between August 26 and 29.
Martin Lawlor, chief executive, Port of Blyth, said: “Volunteers are going to play an important role working on the land and watersides of the event, helping event visitors and the international crews of the Tall Ships to have an enjoyable visit to the county.”
Elsewhere, there are still places on board five of the tall ships – Vega Gamleby, Tomidi, Morgenster, Kapitan Borchardt and Thalassa.
For more information visit www.tallshipsblyth2016.com/jointheadventure#info

BLYTH TALL SHIPS: Volunteers in place for Regatta


A full team of volunteers have been recruited to help make The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta extra special.