17 things you said about the 'amazing' Tall Ships Races visit to Sunderland

People gather on Roker Pier to watch the Tall Ships parade of sail as they prepare to leave Sunderland.

Here's a selection of your comments after Friday's night's impressive programme of entertainment and yesterday's spectacular departure.

Pete Bogg led the way, saying: "Great event, it's a shame we don't make the most of the amazing asset - the river - all the time."

Sunderland seafront was packed as people turned out in their droves to watch the Tall Ships Race parade of sail.

Caroline Gray: "A lot of school trips were organised to visit the Tall Ships. My two daughters were heavily involved with their school in this event, so can't say they missed out. As for the organisation, I personally think the council got it right this time. The fireworks at the end looked awesome."

Lucinda Franciosi hit back at the people who complained about some aspects of the weekend, saying: "Isn’t it sad? It’s been a fantastic event and the city should be proud."

Roddy Macpherson agreed, commenting: "Thoroughly enjoyed my two afternoons on the riverside. Physically impossible for me to have seen the rest, but I'm happy."

Sail chief says Sunderland has been 'marvellous host' for Tall Ships Race

Wearmouth Bridge looked spectacular on Friday night as part of Sunderland's Tall Ships Race celebration.

Tall Ships leave Sunderland in Parade of Sail

Wearmouth Bridge becomes waterfall of fire as gorgeous show provides backdrop to breathtaking high wire performance at Sunderland Tall Ships

Sylvia Simpson was another who had nothing but praise, saying: "Brilliant end to a fantastic event ⛵Well done Sunderland!"

Karen Surtees was another happy punter, writing: "A great well-organised event - and the sun was shining!"

Stan Carr recognised the efforts of those behind the scenes: "Amazing few days. Thanks to the workers and volunteers who put on a fantastic event."

Deborah Mcilduff kept it simple: "Sunderland has shone today. Brilliant day."

Carol Ann Wilkinson agreed, saying the departure was "a brilliant end to a fab few days."

Sylvia Weetman wrote: "Well done tall ships and all that sail on them - safe sailing! I loved every moment. Hope the wind is at your back."

Jo Gavin Richardson added: "It was utterly brilliant! Been great to see the Wear come back to life this week."

Lisa Callaghan asked: "Why can't Sunderland host more events like this. Brilliant on Friday and even better today, especially down at the port. "

Alan Callaghan was many of many visitors who were impressed by Friday night's entertainment.

"It was fantastic, the choir singing beautifully as the marvellous man and woman slowly walked up the high wire to the bridge. Then the fireworks! We were on the Bridge. Well done everyone who organised this spectacular event."

June Tate agreed: "Absolutely amazing night, well done to all the organisers, you all did Sunderland proud. Need more events like this."

Vicki Milburn was also impressed, writing: "It was brilliant! The high wire walkers are so brave and the bridge was magical, lit up like that."

Judith Bebbington added: "I felt like I was in a totally different city, very surreal."

Melanie Field had the last word on the fireworks spectacular, stating: "Amazing - should do that New Year's Eve."