HELD over four days, the Tyne Tour canoeing event is a big hit with paddlers far and wide.

The event is known as one of Europe's largest canoeing events of its kind, and is a big hit with locals as well as canoeists from across the country.

The Tyne Tour began in 1980, originally as the Mike Jones Rally

It was founded by Dr Mike Jones, an iconic figure in the world of canoeing credited with many first descents by kayak including that of Mount Everest in 1976.

He died in 1978 on the Bradlu River in Pakistan while trying to save a companion.

As Dr Jones was a great supporter of recreational white water paddling at a time when the only means to access white water was through the competitive disciplines of slalom and river racing, the Mike Jones Rally started as a recreational canoe touring event that was held annually on the River Dee in North Wales.

After 10 years on the Dee, the event moved to the Tyne and under the watch of Hexham Canoe Club, who have helped grow the event into the huge event it has become today.

The Tyne Tour is hosted over the first week in November, to coincide with Hexham's annual bonfire night.

To add to the celebrations, event organisers host a ceilidh, now in a marquee on Tyne Green after previously being held at the town's Wentworth Leisure Centre for many years.

The highlight of the weekend, which includes various canoeing activities, is the Tyne Descent Race which takes more than 100 competitors from Barrasford on the River South Tyne to Tyne Green, taking in the tricky conditions of Warden Gorge on the way.

But help is always at hand as the organisers ensure adequate safety is provided riverside, should anybody capsize along the way.