THE country's leading competitors will be testing their skills on Coatham Sands at the weekend (July 4 and 5) when Redcar plays host to the British Landsailing Championships.

Organised by York Landyacht Club, the Redcar Regatta will take place over two days when spectators will be able to meet the pilots and explore some of the yachts.

All four classes of land yachts will take part.

Organiser Kevin Skelton said: “With the success of the last two years and the brilliant reception we received from the people of Redcar, we’re hoping this will be an occasion for everyone to enjoy.”

To make sure the event runs smoothly, organisers are seeking any volunteers who wish to take part in marshalling the days’ activities.

Cllr Carl Quartermain, Redcar and Cleveland Council's cabinet member for jobs, skills and leisure, said: “We are really pleased to be hosting to this exhilarating and dramatic sport in our borough.

“Watching the Regatta is a fantastic day out by the seaside, and it looks like it will be a great weekend for it, if the weather remains kind to us.”

Depending on the weather, the Redcar Regatta is due to run from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, July 4 and 10am to 3pm on Sunday, July 5. Part of Coatham Beach will be closed to the public for the Regatta, but people can watch the activities from Majuba Road.

Anyone interested in volunteering to marshal the events, can email Kevin Skelton at ylycregatta@gmail.com